In Sweden, the first CV9030 Mk IV infantry fighting vehicle built for the Czech Republic Army was officially unveiled during a launch ceremony at BAE Systems Hägglunds AB production facilities.
The launch ceremony, hosted by Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson and attended by Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová, marks a significant step in strengthening the Czech Republic’s defense capabilities and fulfilling its NATO commitments.
The Czech Republic’s CV90 Program
This vehicle is the first of 246 CV90 Mk IVs to be assembled and delivered by BAE Systems and its Czech industrial partners, of which 39 vehicles will be produced at BAE Systems facilities in Sweden and 207 in the Czech Republic, with final deliveries scheduled for 2030.
The gradual delivery ensures a smooth transition to new capability, allowing the Czech Army to train crews, integrate the platform into its mechanized units, and maintain operational readiness throughout the process.
Having joined the CV90 User Club, the Czech Republic will also have access to a community of expert operators across Europe, allowing the exchange of operational knowledge, joint training opportunities, and the accelerated introduction of future platform updates.
The Czech CV90 program is a result of a tripartite agreement between the Czech Republic, the Kingdom of Sweden, and BAE Systems Hägglunds, which underlines the Czech Republic’s determination to modernize its Armed Forces and provide its military with the most advanced combat equipment available in Europe.
The Czech Republic will purchase 246 CV90 units from Sweden, including 29 rescue and recovery vehicles, training, spare parts, and other accessories.
CV90 Mk IV
The CV90 MkIV is the latest generation of the proven CV90 family, designed to provide soldiers with decisive advantages on modern battlefields.
Combining exceptional mobility, superior firepower, and advanced protection systems, the combat vehicle guarantees effective operation across the full spectrum of conflicts, from high-intensity warfare to peacekeeping missions.
The CV90 Mk IV, with a maximum weight of up to 38 tons, is equipped with a 30 mm automatic Bushmaster II cannon, advanced fire control systems, and new-generation sensors that offer superior situational awareness and a pair of hidden launchers for Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles.
Modular armor packages and active protection systems (APS) ensure greater survivability against kinetic and explosive threats, while the powerful 700 kW engine and adaptive suspensions provide unmatched mobility on difficult terrain and a range exceeding 600 km.
Its adaptability allows it to counter a wide range of ground and air threats, and its resilience across all terrains ensures operational readiness in any environment.
The contract, worth 22 billion Swedish kronor (2.2 billion dollars), provides high-performance vehicles to the Czech military while simultaneously giving the Czech industry a significant role in the program, accounting for 40% of the contract.
The broad cooperation with local industries includes development, production, and system integration. The initiative brings direct benefits to the national industry, strengthening the local defense sector, ensuring access to the BAE Systems’ global supply chain, expanding cooperation opportunities, and enhancing local competitiveness, while simultaneously increasing national supply security and preserving national sovereignty.
Source and photo credit @BAE Systems Hägglunds
