Latvia takes delivery of new Spike missile variants
The Latvian National Armed Forces have begun to take delivery of initial consignments of Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Spike precision-guided tactical missiles under the provisions of a EUR108 million (USD133 million) contract signed between the Latvian Ministry of Defence and EuroSpike in February 2018.
Jane's understands that the new contract provides for latest Spike variant effectors, including Spike SR, Spike LR2, and Spike ER2. The Latvian Land Forces already field the man-portable Spike LR1, which it acquired in 2008.
Baltic armies continue to modernise with a wary eye on Russia
For example, Latvia is buying 123 CVR(T) lightweight combat vehicles, including Scimitars, Spartans, Sultans, Samsons and Samaritans, from the UK MoD for delivery by 2021.
Latvia is also procuring an undisclosed variant of the Spike ATGM for its CVR(T) fleet, with 70 launchers and 700 missiles on order to be delivered by 2023.
Ministry of Defence signs contract for the purchase of additional “Spike” anti-tank missile systems
On Tuesday, June 3, the Ministry of Defence and the German company “EuroSpike” signed a contract worth 81 million euros for the purchase of “Spike” anti-tank missile systems, ammunition and other equipment.
In order to strengthen the combat capabilities of the regular units of the National Armed Forces and the National Guard, we will purchase additional systems to complement the existing stock of this weaponry," said Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds.
The “Spike” anti-tank missile systems are scheduled to be delivered to Latvia starting from 2028.
The contract also includes 30% local industry involvement in the completion of the purchase.
