The Ministers of Defense of the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, and Ukraine recently made a significant move towards enhancing their defense capabilities by signing a Joint Declaration on Cooperation in the Procurement and Operation of Tracked Infantry Combat Vehicles (APCs). The signing took place during their meeting in Brussels, coinciding with the opening of the NATO Defense Ministers’ Meeting. The declaration aims to facilitate collaboration and coordination among the three nations as they seek to rearm their armies with the Swedish CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). By doing so, they aim to align the requirements of their respective armies and explore opportunities for cooperation in various aspects such as production, in-house manufacturing, operation, training, and maintenance. Additionally, it does not replace any provisions outlined in the Declaration between the Ministry of Defense of the Czech Republic and the Ministry of Defense of the Slovak Republic, which was signed on August 27, 2022, regarding cooperation in the procurement and operation of tracked infantry fighting vehicles (BVP).
“I see Ukraine as a clear part of the West. And the strength of the West is in its unity. Today’s signing of the Declaration on cooperation in the procurement and operation of infantry tracked combat vehicles clearly shows both that we are united and ready to advance in the provision of our defense collectively, and that we perceive Ukraine as a full-fledged partner,” said Minister of Defense Jana ?ernochová at the signing of the declaration.
The decision to rearm their armies with the Swedish IFV CV90 demonstrates the trust and confidence placed in this advanced combat vehicle. Through this joint declaration, the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, and Ukraine reaffirm their commitment to enhancing their defense capabilities and deepening their cooperation within the framework of NATO. This collaborative effort not only strengthens the defense of the participating nations but also contributes to the overall security and stability of the region. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, regional cooperation and coordination in defense matters become increasingly important. By fostering partnerships and sharing resources, countries can effectively address common security challenges and bolster their defense capabilities. The signing of this Joint Declaration on Cooperation in the Procurement and Operation of Tracked Infantry Combat Vehicles represents a significant step in that direction for the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, and Ukraine, laying the groundwork for closer collaboration and mutual support in the future.
The Combat Vehicle 90 (CV90), Swedish: Stridsfordon 90 (Strf 90), is a family of Swedish tracked armored combat vehicles designed by Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration (Försvarets Materielverk, FMV), Hägglunds and Bofors during the mid-1980s to early 1990s, entering service in Sweden in the mid-1990s. The CV90 platform design has continuously evolved from the Mk 0 to current Mk IV with technological advances and changing battlefield requirements. Developed specifically for the Nordic subarctic climate, the vehicle has very good mobility in snow and wetlands while carrying and supporting eight, and in later versions six, fully equipped soldiers. Other variants include forward artillery observation, command and control, anti-aircraft, armoured recovery vehicle, electronic warfare versions and so forth.
