Latvia Sends CVR(T) Armored Vehicles to Ukraine for Battalion Support

Latvia has begun delivering batches of CVR(T) tracked armored vehicles to Ukraine, with the first shipments arriving to bolster Ukrainian battalion-level units, officials confirmed Wednesday.

The transfer was announced by Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov following a meeting with his Latvian counterpart, Andris Sprūds. “Latvia has begun transferring batches of CVR(T) armored combat vehicles to Ukraine. Deliveries are ongoing — the equipment is being supplied to reinforce battalion units,” Fedorov stated on Telegram.

According to Fedorov, the discussion with Sprūds focused on developing joint projects and strengthening defense cooperation. Latvia’s contribution extends beyond the armored vehicle deliveries, encompassing a commitment to allocate 0.25% of its GDP annually to support Ukraine and participation in the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program.

The CVR(T) – Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance (Tracked) – is a British-designed family of light armored vehicles utilized for reconnaissance, command and support roles. Their relatively light weight allows for increased maneuverability across diverse terrains while providing a degree of protection. Latvia possesses nearly 200 CVR(T) vehicles in various configurations, including Spartan, Samaritan, Sultan, Samson, and Scimitar.

The transfer of these vehicles is occurring as Latvia undertakes a broader military modernization program, replacing its existing CVR(T) fleet with ASCOD 2 infantry fighting vehicles produced by GDELS-Santa Bárbara Sistemas. This modernization allows Latvia to provide Ukraine with valuable equipment while upgrading its own defense capabilities.

Fedorov also highlighted ongoing collaboration between Ukraine and Latvia in drone technology, specifically focusing on the development of First-Person View (FPV) drones and longer-range strike systems. He further noted the presentation of Ukraine’s “Drone Line” and basic drone provision for brigades, with a stated goal of achieving a level of enemy losses that would impede further Russian advances.

The deliveries come as international military aid continues to flow into Ukraine. Canada recently announced a new military assistance package on February 24, including over 400 armored vehicles, an extension of Operation UNIFIER training through 2029, and additional funding for Ukraine’s energy sector.