Slovakia moves on Vydra 8x8 acquisition
The Slovakian Ministry of Defence (MoD) is moving ahead with plans to acquire the Patria AMV, announcing that it will propose the cabinet to approve the procurement of the vehicle, to be known as Vydra (Otter).
The MoD plans to procure up to 81 Vydra vehicles, with the overall price not exceeding €417 million ($480.1 million). This includes logistical support, munitions, infrastructure and the purchase of the prototype.
The 8X8 vehicle will be designated as Otter because of its swimming capability and its dynamic, fast, agile, resistant and easily manoeuvrable capabilities.
The MoD will now initiate interdepartmental consultations on the proposal. Up to 16 Slovak firms could become involved in the production of the IFV.
In addition to technical company trials, verification trials and military trials, the IFV prototype has successfully undergone additional verification and military trials in order to test the proposed adjustments to the vehicle to meet Slovakian requirements.
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