Latvia Receives First Locally Assembled Hunter Infantry Fighting Vehicle for NATO Flank
Latvian Defence Minister Raivis Melnis stated that the delivery of infantry fighting vehicles is an important step in strengthening Latvia’s defence capabilities, adding that they will significantly enhance the mobility, protection, and firepower of mechanised units while strengthening cooperation between the National Armed Forces and NATO Allies, The Defense Post reported. The formal handover of the tracked platform took place in Valmiera, kicking off an 84-system program slated for completion by 2029 to bolster NATO’s eastern flank.
The effort spans two major contracts signed in 2025 worth a combined 760 million euros ($849 million). Developer General Dynamics European Land Systems–Santa Bárbara Sistemas manufactured the first platform, named “Mednieks”. By 2029, the National Armed Forces will receive 84 such vehicles to boost national defense capabilities.
Patria Lays Foundation for New Valmiera Manufacturing Facility
Coinciding with the transfer, Hunter program partner Patria laid the foundation for a new Valmiera manufacturing facility to support the fleet. The milestone aligns with Riga’s drive to build resilient domestic supply chains, supported by a mandate for at least 30 percent local industrial participation. The site secures local final assembly and sustainment through a 13-year contract running until December 2037.
It is particularly important that Latvia’s defence industry is actively involved in the implementation of this programme: we are not only acquiring modern equipment, but also developing the country’s domestic industrial and technological capabilities,
Melnis said. He noted that the project demonstrates Latvia’s ability to implement complex initiatives quickly and make targeted investments in national security.
Technical Specifications of the Hunter Tracked Platform
The Hunter is based on General Dynamics’ ASCOD tracked vehicle and uses NATO-standard Level 4 armor, an automatic cannon, anti-tank weapons, and a machine gun. The vehicle weighs 45 tonnes depending on the variant, and can carry up to 10 tonnes of additional payload alongside a crew of three and six fully equipped soldiers.
The platform features a 1,100-horsepower engine that supports a top speed of 70 kilometers per hour and a range of about 500 kilometers.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Hunter Program
When is the Hunter infantry fighting vehicle program scheduled for completion?
The 84-system program is slated for completion by 2029, with sustainment covered through a 13-year contract running until December 2037.
What are the financial terms of the procurement contracts?
The effort spans two major contracts signed in 2025 worth a combined 760 million euros, or approximately $849 million.
Where was the first locally assembled Hunter vehicle handed over?
The tracked platform was formally handed over by General Dynamics European Land Systems–Santa Bárbara Sistemas in Valmiera, where program partner Patria is also building a new manufacturing facility.