Latvian Armed Forces receive first Hunter IFV — LSM English
The Latvian Armed Forces have received the first Hunter infantry fighting vehicle adapted to the country’s needs. By 2029, the Latvian army is expected to receive a total of 84 such vehicles, LSM English reports.
Vehicles for mechanized units
Hunter, or Mednieks in Latvian, is based on the ASCOD tracked platform. The vehicle has fourth-level armor under NATO standards, an automatic cannon, anti-tank weapons and a machine gun. It can carry six service members in full combat gear.
Latvian Defense Minister Raivis Melnis said that the delivery of the IFVs is intended to strengthen the mobility, protection and firepower of mechanized units. According to him, these vehicles will also facilitate cooperation between the Latvian Armed Forces and NATO allies.
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Contracts and maintenance
The name Hunter for the new equipment was chosen by troops of the Land Forces mechanized infantry brigade, who will be the vehicles’ primary users. The Ministry of Defense explained that the word mednieks is associated with Latvian mythology and symbolizes a connection with nature, courage, skill and the ability to survive in any conditions.
In January 2025, the defense ministry signed a contract with Spanish company GDELS-Santa Bárbara Sistemas to purchase 42 IFVs. The document provided for the involvement of local industry in at least 30% of the order’s value. In June of the same year, the ministry doubled the order by adding another 42 vehicles.
In September 2025, a subcontract for Hunter technical maintenance was also signed. It will be valid for 13 years, until December 31, 2037, and provides for broader involvement of Latvian companies to strengthen supply security.
