United to win: Latvia to transfer British-purchased CVR armored vehicles to Ukraine
The Latvian Ministry of Defense has announced the transfer of CVR(T) combat reconnaissance tracked armored vehicles to Ukraine. These vehicles were previously purchased from Great Britain. However, the exact number of equipment pieces will not be disclosed to maintain operational security.
Delfi reported that.
Since 2023, Latvia has pledged to provide military aid to Ukraine in the amount of 0.25% of GDP annually until 2026. To date, Latvia has already transferred to Ukraine:
- helicopters,
- self-propelled howitzers and other types of weapons.
The contract with Great Britain, signed in 2014, provided 123 armored vehicles, 116 of which underwent modernization. The first deliveries took place in 2015, and an additional contract was signed in 2019.
Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds said that procuring new infantry fighting vehicles to replace the CVR(T) is in the final stages.
These machines are necessary for rearming the Latvian army and participating in tactical operations.
For reference:
The CVR(T) is a group of British tanks with tracks designed in the middle of the 20th century. They're famous for being very agile and adaptable.
These tanks can carry out various tasks such as gathering information, patrolling, providing support during combat, and transporting injured personnel.
Latvia actively supports Ukraine in its struggle for independence. Riga provides significant military and humanitarian aid, including arms, ammunition, medicine, and food. Latvia also offers financial support for the restoration of Ukraine's destroyed infrastructure.
So, next year, as in the current year, Latvia will allocate 20 million euros for the international coalition of drones, designed to strengthen Ukraine's defense potential. In addition, Latvia has started training Ukrainian drone operators.
The Latvian government decided to donate 20 vehicles to Ukraine at no cost. These vehicles had previously been seized from drivers who were arrested for driving drunk.
In addition, Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina announced a new military aid package for Ukraine during her visit to Kyiv.
Latvia also plans to transfer solar panels to Ukraine to supply hospitals.
Moreover, the prime ministers discussed expanding cooperation between defense companies and strengthening the Ukrainian military on the battlefield. Latvia also supports sanctions against Russia and is a reliable ally of Ukraine in its integration into the EU and NATO.
