Defence in brief: CAVS welcomes Denmark

Denmark has joined the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) programme, according to a 1st April press release from Patria. Denmark joins the existing partner nations of Finland, Latvia, Sweden and Germany. Between them, these four nations have already ordered 800 CAVS vehicles and established local production in Latvia. 

The Danish government announced an additional €6.7 billion to fund the procurement of new equipment and to support reorganisations within the Danish armed forces. The country is moving quickly to re-equip its armed forces following significant donations to Ukraine. Patria and SIMA Innovation from Denmark signed a cooperation agreement in March to cooperate on promotion of both company’s products, including the SIMA ring mount, which has been integrated onto the CAVS. 

Outside of Denmark, Germany has invited Patria to tender for 300 CAVS vehicles to replace its fleet of Fuchs 6×6 armoured vehicles, and may also include a turreted mortar variant armed with the NEMO system from Patria. The vehicle is also being offered to the UK through a partnership between Patria and Babcock, likely for the country’s Land Mobility Programme. 

The platform has a potentially bright future, combining a relatively simple design with cost-effective maintenance and support requirements. This makes it well-positioned for stretched defence budgets throughout Europe that are looking to replenish lost protected mobility capabilities. Patria’s recent success, including with the CAVS has prompted the company to invest €40 million in its Hämeenlinna production facility to speed up production of existing orders, according to a 26th March press release. 

By Sam Cranny-Evans, published 1st April, 2025.