The project includes Morana self-propelled howitzers and envisages multiple-launch rocket systems using a common Tatra vehicle platform. Financing through the EU’s Security Action for Europe, or SAFE, instrument is envisaged.
Latvia’s government has already decided to acquire Morana, a NATO-standard 155 mm howitzer mounted on a Tatra Force 8×8 chassis. According to the Latvian defence ministry, the selection considered operational capabilities, costs, delivery schedules and opportunities for local industry.
“Equally important to us is the extensive involvement of Latvia’s defence industry in the implementation of this project,” said Latvian Defence Minister Raivis Melnis. “Our objective is not only to acquire modern military equipment, but also to develop domestic manufacturing, servicing and technological capabilities that will contribute to Latvia’s long-term resilience and security.”
Morana was developed by CSG’s Excalibur Army in cooperation with Slovak defence companies, including ZŤS ŠPECIÁL, which manufactures the 155 mm weapon system. Slovak industry will also participate in producing superstructures and other components and providing the fire control system.
Some equipment will be manufactured in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with other production and final assembly expected to take place in Latvia. Latvian partners will also have an extensive role in maintenance and lifecycle support, according to CSG.
“For CSG, it is also important that this is not simply about supplying equipment, but about establishing a long-term industrial partnership,” said Jan Marinov, chief executive of CSG Defence Systems. “The objective is to build manufacturing and maintenance capabilities in Latvia that will support the supplied equipment throughout its entire lifecycle.”
“This project is a concrete example of how cooperation between European countries and their defence industries can deliver modern capabilities to our armed forces while strengthening Europe’s defence industrial base,” said Slovak Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák. “The Slovak defence industry will play a significant role in the project and contribute technologically critical components to the systems.”
The procurement structure draws on Tatra Defence Systems’ framework agreement with Slovakia’s defence ministry for Tatra Force military vehicles in several variants. The Czech Republic is discussing joining that framework, which supports joint procurement and cooperation on lifecycle support.
CSG said using a common vehicle platform would simplify logistics, maintenance and training for the Latvian Armed Forces. The project also provides for gradual localisation intended to give Latvia the capabilities needed to operate and service the systems over the long term.
