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The Latvian Ministry of Defense has confirmed its decision to procure the ASCOD (Austrian-Spanish Cooperation Development) infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) as part of its broader initiative to modernize the country’s defense capabilities.

The selection of ASCOD IFVs marks a significant move to reinforce Latvia’s military power, especially given the current regional security concerns in Eastern Europe.

The ASCOD is manufactured by GDELS-Santa Barbara Sistemas, a Spanish branch of General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS), and has earned its place in Latvia’s defense arsenal due to its robust design, advanced technology, and proven track record among global armed forces.

Negotiations between the Latvian Ministry of Defense and GDELS-Santa Barbara Sistemas are anticipated to conclude by the end of this year or early next year. Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds stated, “The tracked vehicle will bolster the operational capacities of the Baltic state’s military,” indicating the high level of importance Latvia places on this acquisition.

Latvia’s strategic selection of the ASCOD vehicle aligns with a broader goal to enhance its defense posture amid increasing security challenges in the Baltic region. Latvia shares a border with Russia, and recent events, including heightened tensions due to the conflict in Ukraine, have underscored the need for Latvia to strengthen its military forces. The acquisition of ASCOD vehicles reflects Latvia’s commitment to reinforcing its national security and military readiness alongside its NATO allies.

The new IFVs are expected to significantly enhance the Latvian military’s operational capabilities, providing better mobility, survivability, and firepower for its infantry. “The tracked vehicle will bolster the operational capacities of the Baltic state’s military,” emphasized Defense Minister Spruds, reflecting on the added strength the ASCOD brings to the Latvian defense.

The ASCOD acquisition is part of a larger defense procurement strategy currently underway in Latvia. In addition to the tracked infantry fighting vehicles, the Latvian Ministry of Defense has announced plans to procure other critical military assets, including self-propelled howitzers. This focus on advanced, mobile artillery will likely complement the IFVs, enabling the Latvian military to execute more flexible and effective responses in various combat scenarios.

Specifications and features of ASCOD IFV

Originally developed through a collaborative effort between Austria and Spain, ASCOD vehicles are now deployed by the armed forces of several countries, including Spain, Austria, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Philippines. This widespread adoption is a testament to the vehicle’s versatility and advanced engineering.

Weight and armor: Weighing between 28 to 42 tons depending on configuration, the ASCOD is built with modular armor that can be adjusted according to mission requirements, offering a balance between mobility and protection.

Mobility: The ASCOD is powered by a 720-horsepower MTU diesel engine, enabling it to achieve a maximum speed of around 70 km/h and navigate challenging terrains with ease. Its tracked design enhances its off-road capabilities, making it suitable for diverse operational environments.

Firepower: One of ASCOD’s key advantages is its customizable weapon system. Standard configurations include a 30mm or 40mm autocannon, with optional anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and machine guns, giving it formidable firepower against a range of threats.

Crew and capacity: The ASCOD can accommodate up to 11 personnel, including a crew of three (commander, gunner, and driver) and up to eight fully equipped soldiers, making it an effective infantry transport vehicle.

Protection Systems: The ASCOD incorporates advanced protection systems, including composite armor for ballistic protection, mine-resistant hull design, and optional active protection systems (APS) to guard against anti-tank missiles and rocket-propelled grenades.

The ASCOD will play a central role in bolstering Latvia’s ground forces, equipping them with a robust and reliable vehicle capable of meeting modern-day combat challenges. This acquisition is set to transform Latvia’s defense landscape, providing its military with a platform that can be adapted to various mission requirements, ensuring both national security and the ability to contribute effectively to NATO’s collective defense framework.

As regional tensions continue to influence defense strategies across Europe, Latvia’s commitment to upgrading its military assets, including the ASCOD and other advanced systems, reflects a proactive stance in safeguarding its sovereignty and supporting the security of the Baltic region.