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Patria XA 203 Armored Vehicle

Patria XA 203 Armored Vehicle

Manufacturer: Patria
Category: Tanks & Armored Vehicles
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Main Gun Caliber 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun
Engine Power 236 hp
Maximum Speed 100 km per hour
Armor Type Welded steel armor

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Vehicle Name	Patria XA 203
Type / Role	Armored Personnel Carrier
Manufacturer	Patria
Country of Origin	Finland
In Service	Yes
Year Introduced	1983
Unit Cost	USD 0.5 to 1 million
Crew	2 plus 10 troops

2. Dimensions & Weight

Length (Gun Forward)	7.4 m
Width	2.9 m
Height	2.5 m
Weight	13.5 tons
Ground Clearance	0.4 m
Chassis Material	Steel

3. Performance

Engine Type	Diesel Engine - Valmet 611 DSBJA
Engine Power	236 hp
Power-to-Weight Ratio	~17.5 hp per ton
Transmission	Automatic
Maximum Speed (Road)	100 km/h
Maximum Speed (Off-Road)	~40 to 50 km/h
Operational Range	Up to 800 km
Suspension Type	Independent Wheel Suspension

4. Armament

Main Gun	7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun
Ammunition Capacity	Roof mounted pintle or turret
Secondary Armament	Depends on configuration
Gun Elevation/Depression	Manual
Fire Control System	None (manual aiming)
Stabilization	No
Rate of Fire	Depends on weapon used

5. Protection & Armor

Armor Type	Welded steel armor
Active Protection System (APS)	No
NBC Protection	Yes
Smoke Grenade Launchers	Optional
Fire Suppression System	Automatic (engine compartment)

6. Mobility & Capability

Maximum Gradient	60%
Side Slope	30%
Trench Crossing	~1.5 m
Vertical Obstacle	~0.6 m
Fording Depth	Fully amphibious
Turning Radius	Conventional
Amphibious Capability	Yes (standard)

7. Sensors & Electronics

Fire Control Computer	No
Thermal Imaging	Optional (upgrade dependent)
Night Vision	Driver night vision (optional)
Laser Rangefinder	No
Communication System	Military tactical radios
Battlefield Management System	No

8. Operational Info

Service Branch	Army, Peacekeeping Forces
Primary Operator	Finland, UN mission users
Combat Experience	Peacekeeping operations
Export Status	Limited, surplus units
Production Status	No longer in production

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10
Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Reliability & Maintenance 8 / 10

PROS

Proven reliability in harsh climates
Amphibious capability as standard
Simple mechanical design
Good troop carrying capacity
Lower operating cost than tracked vehicles

CONS

Limited armor by modern standards
Light armament options
No active protection system
Aging electronics in baseline versions
Less suitable for high intensity combat

Patria XA 203 Armored Personnel Carrier

The Patria XA 203 armored vehicle is a battle proven wheeled platform designed to move troops safely across difficult terrain. Developed during the Cold War and refined through decades of service, the XA 203 earned a reputation for durability, simple upkeep, and strong off road mobility. It remains relevant today for nations seeking a reliable armored personnel carrier without high operating costs.

Background and Service History

The XA 203 is part of the Patria XA series, often known as the Pasi family. Finland introduced the vehicle in the early 1980s to replace older tracked carriers. It quickly gained attention after successful deployments in United Nations peacekeeping missions across the Balkans, Africa, and the Middle East. Its strong performance in harsh climates became a key success story for Finnish defense exports.

Design and Capabilities

Built by Patria in Finland, the XA 203 uses a six wheel drive layout optimized for snow, mud, and rough ground. The vehicle is designed mainly for troop transport, command roles, and battlefield support. It can carry a full infantry squad while offering protection against small arms fire, shell fragments, and mines.

The diesel engine provides solid road speed and a long operating range, making it suitable for patrol and convoy escort missions. The XA 203 is fully amphibious, allowing water crossings without preparation. Armament usually includes a roof mounted machine gun, though weapon fit depends on operator needs.

Operational Use

The XA 203 has served with Finnish forces and several international operators. It is commonly used in peacekeeping, internal security, border patrol, and training roles. For U.S. audiences, the vehicle is often studied as a cost effective example of wheeled armor focused on mobility rather than heavy firepower.

Patria XA 203 Armored Vehicle Price in US

The Patria XA 203 is no longer in new production, but surplus or refurbished units are estimated to cost between USD 500,000 and USD 1 million per vehicle. Final pricing depends on condition, upgrades, and support packages.

Reviews

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Maintenance Efficiency:

8
Technology:

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Performance:

8
Reliability & Maintenance:

8
Average Rating 6 / 10 based on your selection

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