Among the numerous re-equipment projects and programs of the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), the renewal of the German Army’s (Heer) wheeled armored personnel carriers appears to be nearing a decision. This comes following a recent agreement between the German government and Finnish company Patria, through which Germany becomes a full partner, deepening its collaboration in the development and production program of the 6×6 CAVS APC, spearheaded by Finland, Estonia, and Sweden.
Currently, the German Army is evaluating various proposals to replace its 6×6 TPz Fuchs wheeled armored personnel carriers. These vehicles, in service since 1979, are due for replacement, with two main proposals under consideration.
The first, and more traditional option, is presented by Rheinmetall, based on an evolution of the Fuchs family, designated as the Fuchs 2. This version incorporates the latest advancements in protection and armor. In contrast, the second proposal is based on the 6×6 wheeled armored vehicle developed under Patria’s CAVS Program, in partnership with the governments of Finland, Estonia, and Sweden.
In 2022, Germany confirmed its entry into Patria’s Common Armored Vehicle System (CAVS) program by signing a letter of intent. This was later complemented in 2023 with an agreement focused on R&D related to the 6×6 APC, presumably to develop a version tailored to meet the requirements of its armed forces.
Recently, Patria confirmed that Germany has taken another step in this partnership by signing a new framework agreement. This allows the German government to proceed with the acquisition of Patria’s 6×6 armored vehicles, joining Finland, Estonia, and Sweden in the program.
These countries are already incorporating the first units of this new 6×6 armored vehicle system into their armed forces. Currently, Latvia has ordered over 200 units (increased to 256 as of November 2024), with local production underway. Finland has signed a letter of intent for an additional 160 vehicles. Sweden has received the first batch of its new 6×6 wheeled armored combat vehicles, with an initial order of 20 units, part of a larger order totaling 321 vehicles, officially designated as Pansarterrängbil 300.
According to Patria, “Patria is pleased to see Germany advancing towards the serial acquisition phase. Germany’s determination and steady progress within the CAVS program have been an excellent example of modern multinational cooperation, aimed at enhancing interoperability and supply security among allied nations. Together with our German partners KNDS, FFG, and JWT, we are ready to establish local production within a short timeframe,” stated Hugo Vanbockryck, Senior Vice President of Patria’s Europe Market Area.
Although there is no official decision yet regarding the successor to the German Army’s Fuchs, the recent signing of these agreements could tip the scales in favor of Patria’s proposal.
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