In a significant development for the Czech Army, the first in a series of meetings between Czech and Swedish experts took place at the BAE Systems Hägglunds facility in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, setting the stage for the detailed specification of the new CV90 MkIV infantry fighting vehicles. The meeting aimed to clarify the technical requirements based on Czech specifications before the vehicles are delivered to the Army of the Czech Republic. Colonel Jan Kerdík, the head of the ground troop development department within the Ministry of Defense’s force development section, led the Czech delegation, which comprised experts representing various sections of the General Staff and units of the Czech Army’s Ground Forces, serving as end-users. Henrik Gyllencreutz, CV90 CZ project manager from BAE Systems, led the Swedish team, providing the Czech side with comprehensive information about the conceptual solutions for all seven CV90 MkIV variants that the Czech army is set to receive.
This inaugural meeting was instrumental in resolving the technical parameters for all variants, including combat, command, reconnaissance, artillery observation, engineering, rescue, and medical vehicles, establishing a foundation for subsequent discussions on individual variants. The primary goal of the meeting was to meticulously discuss the design concept of the CV90 vehicles to ensure mutual understanding of requirements and parameters. The collaborative effort aimed to ensure that the proposed technical solutions align seamlessly with the Czech Army’s expectations. Given the language barrier, Colonel Kerdík highlighted the significance of explaining contract details comprehensively in English to avoid any misunderstandings. The delegation had the opportunity to tour BAE Systems‘ production facilities and research and testing facilities. A visit to the test range provided Czech experts with a firsthand look at the real vehicle, enriching their understanding of its capabilities.
The Czech Army anticipates receiving the first CV90 vehicles in 2026. Before the production of the initial vehicle prototypes in accordance with Czech Army specifications, a series of technical meetings and tests are scheduled. These meetings are vital, as they will address specific Czech requirements, such as vehicle paintwork matching the A?R camouflage pattern, unique fasteners, and specialized equipment for individual vehicle versions. The negotiations will be conducted at various levels, involving project teams and working groups focused on areas like weapons, vehicle protection, and communication. The involvement of the Czech industry will also be a key aspect of these negotiations, with some meetings planned to take place in the Czech Republic, although the majority will occur at BAE Hägglunds’ headquarters. Additionally, video conferences will be utilized to facilitate communication as efficiently as possible.
The collaborative efforts between Czech and Swedish experts mark a significant step forward in ensuring that the CV90 MkIV infantry fighting vehicles meet the precise needs and expectations of the Army of the Czech Republic, enhancing the country’s defense capabilities in the years to come. The Slovak military and BAE Systems Hägglunds signed a contract worth €1.3 billion for the acquisition of 152 CV90 MkIV on 12 December 2022. The contract includes 122 IFV variants armed with a 35mm autocannon and SPIKE-LR anti-tank guided missiles, as well as the Iron Fist active protection system. As part of a government-to-government agreement between Sweden and the Slovak Republic, the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic has signed a $1.37 billion (€1.3 billion) agreement for the delivery of 152 CV9035 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) from BAE Systems. The CV90s will be produced and delivered in several configurations with the full cooperation of Slovak industry including ZTS – ŠPECIÁL as the main industry partner to BAE Systems. Other Slovak state-owned and private companies will take critical roles in producing the vehicles and supporting the program in the longer term.
