Babcock and Patria partner on APC for UK Armed Forces

Image courtesy Babcock / Patria

Under the terms of the agreement, Patria will lead on the design and development of the system, providing bespoke enhancements to its existing six-by-six platform. Babcock will lead on the build solution, in keeping with the UK MoD Land Industrial Strategy, as well as developing a platform support package that will maintain operational readiness of the vehicle, through life.  

The Patria six-by-six is a modular, robust and affordable vehicle platform for protected troop transport that offers high performance, modern protection and unprecedented mobility. It is currently in production under the multinational Common Armoured Vehicle (CAVS) programme, set up by Finland, Latvia and other European governments to create an advanced six-by-six armoured vehicle system.

As a strategic partner to the British Army, Babcock is a tried and tested system integrator and platform build specialist with extensive production facilities. Babcock’s skilled workforce is currently delivering high volume vehicle build programmes for the UK Armed Forces, at pace.

Tom Newman, CEO of Babcock’s Land Sector, said: “The partnership between Patria and Babcock presents the UK Armed Forces with the highest performing in-service armoured personnel carrier. Babcock’s skilled workforce, innovative facilities and promotion of social value ensures that the ethos of the UK Land Industrial Strategy is met. The partnership combines the highest quality British and Finnish engineering to make sure that the British Army is ready for its next mission."  

Hugo Vanbockryck, Senior Vice President, Market Area for Patria, said: “We are pleased to start a unique partnership that will provide significant added value for the United Kingdom. Europe needs collaboration and joint procurements and the UK rapidly needs a cost-effective, fully developed, off-the-shelf vehicle platform. Patria six-by-six is already in production, fielded by NATO partner nations and will be manufactured and supported locally in the UK to meet the high requirements and technical standards of the British Army.”