BAE Systems Delivers Cutting-Edge Combat Vehicle to Czech Military
- Prabhat R Mishra
- Sep 7
- 3 min read
The Czech Republic has reached a major milestone in its military modernization program with the official unveiling of the first CV9030 MkIV infantry fighting vehicle at a rollout ceremony hosted by BAE Systems Hägglunds in Sweden. The event, attended by Swedish Minister of Defence Pål Jonson and Czech Minister of Defence Jana Černochová, marked a significant step toward strengthening the Czech Republic’s defense capabilities and reinforcing its role within NATO.
This first vehicle is part of a 246-vehicle order that BAE Systems is delivering in collaboration with Czech industry partners. Of these, 39 vehicles will be manufactured in Sweden, while the majority—207 units—will be built in the Czech Republic, ensuring extensive local industrial participation. Final deliveries are expected by 2030, with a phased rollout designed to allow the Czech Army to gradually integrate the vehicles into service, train its crews, and maintain operational readiness throughout the transition.
A Leap Forward in Capabilities
Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, Managing Director of BAE Systems Hägglunds, highlighted the advantages the CV90 will bring to the Czech Army:
“The CV90 provides an unrivalled combination of mobility, firepower, and protection, and will significantly strengthen the capabilities of the Czech Army. This is just the beginning – by joining the CV90 User Club, the Czech Republic also gains access to a community of experienced operators across Europe, enabling the exchange of operational insights, joint training opportunities, and accelerated introduction of future upgrades.”
Membership in the CV90 User Club ensures that the Czech Republic joins a community of nations—including Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and the Netherlands—already operating variants of the CV90. This provides not only access to shared training and knowledge but also to future collaborative upgrades and innovations.
Political and Strategic Importance
The unveiling comes after the signing of a three-party agreement between the Czech Republic, the Kingdom of Sweden, and BAE Systems Hägglunds. This agreement reflects Prague’s determination to modernize its armed forces and provide soldiers with the most advanced combat equipment available in Europe.
Minister Jana Černochová underlined the significance of this achievement for her country’s security:
“Today is proof that we are not just talking about the modernization of the Army, but working hard to make it a reality. This is an important moment for the security of the Czech Republic. The CV90 project represents months of negotiations, hundreds of people, and thousands of hours of work. I am convinced that thanks to our joint efforts, Czech soldiers will receive in the CV90 the very best that the defense industry has to offer.”
Features of the CV9030 MkIV
The CV90 MkIV is the latest generation of the combat-proven CV90 family, designed to provide decisive battlefield advantages. Key features include:
Armament: A 30 mm Bushmaster II automatic cannon paired with advanced fire control systems for precision targeting.
Sensors: Next-generation situational awareness systems that allow crews to detect, track, and respond to threats more effectively.
Protection: Modular armor and active protection systems that guard against both kinetic and explosive threats.
Mobility: A powerful engine combined with adaptive suspension for superior performance in diverse and difficult terrains.
Versatility: Adaptable to both high-intensity combat and peacekeeping operations, giving Czech forces flexibility across missions.
This combination of firepower, survivability, and mobility ensures that the CV90 MkIV will serve as a cornerstone of the Czech Republic’s defense strategy for years to come.
Economic and Industrial Benefits
The program, valued at SEK 22 billion (approximately $2.2 billion), not only enhances Czech defense capabilities but also provides a substantial boost to the national defense industry. Approximately 40% of the contract value is being allocated to Czech companies, covering development, production, and system integration.
By partnering with BAE Systems, local firms gain access to the company’s global supply chain, expanding opportunities for future cooperation and strengthening competitiveness. This collaboration also improves the national security of supply and supports Czech sovereignty in defense manufacturing.
READ ALSO: https://www.modernmechanics24.com/post/milrem-frontline-integrate-ugv-rws
Strengthening NATO’s Land Capabilities
Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson emphasized the strategic significance of the rollout:
“I am proud that we today can confirm this important milestone in the deliveries of the CV90 to our Czech partner. The CV90 now constitutes an important cornerstone in the armed forces of several countries, and it has proven effective on the battlefield in Ukraine and in the defense of Europe. The Czech Republic will now receive a battle-tested, efficient, and successful combat vehicle.”
With its proven track record in European defense operations and its adaptability to modern warfare requirements, the CV90 is expected to ensure the Czech Army remains at the forefront of NATO’s land combat capabilities for decades.
The rollout of the first CV9030 MkIV stands as a symbol of innovation, cooperation, and resilience—a testament to how international partnerships and domestic industry integration can together strengthen national defense while contributing to collective European security.
READ ALSO: https://www.modernmechanics24.com/post/from-lab-to-battlefield-naval-hydrogen-tech-gets-tactical
Comments