Latvia has ordered 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles

30 January, 2025 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicle. Photo: Latvian Ministry of Defense The Ministry of Defense of Latvia has ordered 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to reinforce its troops with modern tracked armored vehicles.

The press service of the Ministry of Defense of Latvia reported that the contract was signed on January 30 with the Spanish company GDELS-Santa Barbara Sistemas. The deal is worth EUR373 million. The procurement process for combat vehicles started in early 2023 with the selection of several potential suppliers.

To obtain data on operational capabilities, functional tests of various combat platforms were conducted in the fall of the same year in accordance with the operational needs of the Latvian National Armed Forces.

ASCOD infantry fighting vehicle. Photo credits: NBS

After the tests, experts conducted an in-depth assessment of the results. They also assessed the cost of the platforms, available equipment, fulfillment of the requirements for involving local industry in production, delivery times, and other aspects.

According to the National Defense Concept, the Latvian National Armed Forces must develop capabilities by increasing firepower and distances that prevent the enemy from operating freely in the air, at sea, and on the ground. As part of NATO's goals to develop the combat capabilities of the alliance, IFVs are a priority. Their entry into service will also enhance Latvia's combat capabilities.

The country's Defense Ministry announced the purchase of the ASCOD last November.

ASCOD infantry fighting vehicle. Photo credits: NBS

The Ministry of Defense of Latvia said that the ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles will be armed with an automatic cannon, anti-tank guided missiles, a machine gun, and other modern technologies allowing soldiers to see the battlefield. The IFV's crew consists of three soldiers.

The vehicle can transport and land six soldiers in full combat gear.

The ASCOD has ballistic and mine protection, which provides a level of protection in accordance with STANAG 4569 - level 4 for ballistic protection (against 14.5 mm armor-piercing bullets) and level 4a/4b for mine protection (10 kg of explosives).