Latvia to Procure 42 ASCOD IFVs from Spain's General Dynamics Land Systems

Latvia has signed a €373 million contract with Spain’s General Dynamics European Land Systems - Santa Bárbara Sistemas to procure 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles for the National Armed Forces.

The agreement was signed today by Latvian National Armaments Director Major General Andis Dilāns and company Vice President Alejandro Page Hernandez.

Latvian Defence Minister A. Spruds stated that the procurement marks a step in the mechanization of the Land Forces and involves the national defense industry in providing the new vehicles. Hernandez noted that the ASCOD platform was selected following an international competition and expressed readiness to collaborate with Latvia’s defense sector.

The ASCOD vehicles feature NATO STANAG 4569 level four armor, an automatic cannon, anti-tank weapons, a machine gun, and other battlefield awareness technologies. Each vehicle has a crew of three and can transport six fully equipped soldiers.

Latvia launched the procurement process in early 2023, conducting a feasibility study and functional tests in autumn 2023. The National Armed Forces evaluated the platforms based on operational needs, cost, equipment, local industry involvement, and delivery timelines.

The acquisition aligns with Latvia’s State Defence Concept, which prioritizes enhanced firepower, anti-aircraft defense, coastal defense, and long-range missile capabilities. Infantry fighting vehicles are also a NATO Capability Development Goal priority.