Finland’s Patria Unveils Trackx: A Modern Armored Personnel Carrier

Finland-based Patria has introduced its latest development in military mobility: the Trackx, a light tracked armored personnel carrier (APC) designed to potentially succeed the M113, which has set the standard in armored vehicle effectiveness for over six decades. The Trackx is slated to enter mass production by 2027, positioning it as a noteworthy addition to the armored vehicle landscape.

Addressing Market Needs

Unveiled at the recent DSEI UK defense exhibition, the Trackx fills a critical niche within the armored vehicle market. Patria emphasizes that this all-terrain troop carrier bridges the gap between lighter and heavier vehicles, catering to diverse operational requirements.

Key Specifications

• Capacity: Designed to accommodate 12 military personnel, including a driver, commander, and ten dismounts.
• Weight: The maximum combat weight is set at 15.5 tons.
• Protection: The vehicle offers ballistic defense against small-arms fire, with potential upgrades for armor-piercing projectiles.

Competitive Advantage

Patria positions Trackx as a contemporary alternative within the 13-18 metric-ton category of tracked armored vehicles, a segment currently dominated by the aging M113, which has demonstrated its durability in recent conflicts, notably in Ukraine.

Jussi Järvinen, Patria’s executive vice president for protected mobility, remarked, “Currently, there isn’t a comparable offering from other manufacturers. Competitors primarily produce lighter or significantly heavier and costlier vehicles.”

Development Under FAMOUS

Trackx emerges as the inaugural production-ready vehicle from the FAMOUS program, an EU-funded initiative aimed at advancing high-mobility armor, where Finland serves as the lead nation and Patria coordinates development efforts. In tandem with this, a concept vehicle was presented at the Eurosatory defense show in Paris last year.

Market Relevance

Patria asserts that Trackx could serve as an optimal replacement for nations currently utilizing M113 or MT-LB models. The M113’s vast popularity reflects its operational versatility, as evidenced by over 80,000 units produced globally across various configurations.

Performance and Utility

Patria has conducted extensive field trials of Trackx, demonstrating its capabilities across varied terrains, including roads, forests, bogs, and snowy conditions. Key design features include:

• Rubber tracks: Improves traction on diverse surfaces.
• Low ground pressure: Facilitates operations in softer terrains.
• Adjustable hydro-pneumatic suspension: Enhances mobility by allowing independent adjustment of each wheel.

Customer Interest

The Trackx has garnered significant interest from potential clients, with inquiries stemming primarily from EU member states, but also from international markets. Järvinen noted that involvement from FAMOUS program member nations has informed the development process, ensuring that the vehicle meets specific operational requirements.

Program Funding

The FAMOUS program boasts a total budget of approximately €132 million ($155 million). Funding sources include around €9 million from the European Commission, €95 million from the European Defence Fund, with remaining costs covered by member states and participating industry partners.

Strategic Implications for Finland

In Finland, the FAMOUS initiative is integral to replacing outdated all-terrain vehicles with advanced designs capable of operating in harsh northern climates.

Collaborative Efforts

Patria collaborates with various European partners, including Arquus from France, the French-German consortium KNDS, and Spain’s Indra. The manufacturing responsibilities specified for these partners will adapt depending on the prospective customer nations.

Conclusion

Patria’s Trackx represents a strategic advancement in the realm of light armored vehicles, addressing existing gaps in mobility and offering a modern solution for armed forces looking to enhance their operational capabilities. The emphasis on local production and strategic partnerships underscores Patria’s commitment to establishing a robust defense manufacturing ecosystem within Europe.