Finnish startup unveils armored vehicle at Paris defense expo

A Finnish startup, Scata, has unveiled its new armored vehicle, the SCATA MK1, at the Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris. The modular, multi-purpose vehicle is designed for military, rescue, and police use, with production potentially starting in Pietarsaari in 2027.

The SCATA MK1 features integrated drone surveillance and an active protection system, allowing vehicles to communicate with each other. It can also be remotely operated for unmanned tasks such as maintenance. The vehicle weighs 14,000 kg, has a payload capacity of 4,500 kg, and meets STANAG 4569 ballistic protection standards.

Scata reports strong international interest, including from non-NATO countries, with order books opening at the Paris expo. CEO Viktor Ekman said serial production could scale up as early as next winter, with Finland and Sweden as priority markets.

The vehicle’s chassis, axles, and powertrain are French, while the engine is British. Finnish components include glass, lighting, and raw metals, with welding done domestically. At least five variants are planned, with the current model being a full-cab version.

Juho Romakkaniemi of the Finnish Chamber of Commerce noted that NATO defense budget increases create opportunities for Finnish defense firms, emphasizing the need for NATO-compatible products to compete in upcoming tenders.