Latvia to Receive First ASCOD Hunter IFVs in Early 2026, Full Fleet by 2027

Initial Deliveries Set for First Half of 2026

Riga, Latvia – Latvia is set to receive its first ASCOD Hunter infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) in the first half of 2026, with the full fleet of 84 vehicles expected to be delivered by 2027. This timeline was confirmed by Latvia's Defence Minister Andris Sprūds on November 27, 2025. The early delivery of these initial vehicles will facilitate preliminary unit integration and training for the Latvian armed forces.

The acquisition represents a significant investment in Latvia's defense capabilities, totaling approximately €760 million. The procurement began with an initial contract in January 2025 for 42 vehicles valued at €373 million, followed by a second order in June 2025 for an additional 42 IFVs costing €387 million.

Strategic Modernization and European Cooperation

The ASCOD Hunter IFVs are being supplied by General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS)-Santa Bárbara Sistemas. This procurement is a cornerstone of Latvia's broader defense modernization strategy, aimed at enhancing the mobility and firepower of its land forces and strengthening its contribution to NATO's collective security.

In a move to foster deeper cooperation and interoperability, Latvia, alongside Spain and Austria, signed a letter of intent on November 27, 2025, to formalize their collaboration within the ASCOD program. This agreement establishes a shared user group for upgrades, sustainment, and interoperability, with the United Kingdom also participating in the inaugural meeting held at the Ādaži military base. Minister Sprūds emphasized that this cooperation 'strengthens mobility, protection, and resilience for Latvia's land forces' and highlighted the intention to include additional allies in the future.

Key Features of the ASCOD Hunter IFV

The ASCOD Hunter is a Latvian-customized variant of the advanced ASCOD 2 tracked platform. Soldiers from Latvia's Mechanized Infantry Brigade chose the name 'Hunter', linking it to Latvian mythology where the hunter symbolizes 'skill, adaptation, connection to the environment and survival in demanding conditions'.

Key specifications and capabilities of the Hunter IFV include:

• Armament: Equipped with an Elbit UT30 Mk2 unmanned turret, featuring a 30 mm Mk44 Bushmaster II autocannon, capable of integrating Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles, and a machine gun.
• Protection: Provides armor protection meeting NATO STANAG 4569 Level 4 standards, offering defense against kinetic and mine-blast threats.
• Mobility: Powered by an MTU 8V199 series diesel engine (up to 1,100 hp) and a Renk HSWL 256B transmission, enabling excellent cross-country mobility and a top road speed of up to 70 km/h. It utilizes rubber tracks supplied by Soucy.
• Crew and Capacity: Operated by a crew of three and designed to carry up to six fully-equipped infantry soldiers.
• Technology: Features a digital electronic architecture, modular design, and NATO-compatible C4I systems for enhanced situational awareness and networked operations.

Local Industry Involvement

A significant aspect of the procurement is the commitment to local industrial participation. At least 30 percent of the program's value is designated for Latvian industry, involving local companies in component production, licensed assembly, and long-term sustainment work. This initiative aims to strengthen Latvia's industrial capacity and ensure the long-term maintenance and upgrade capabilities of the Hunter fleet within the country.