ÖRNSKÖLDSVIK, Sweden - The rollout ceremony, hosted by Swedish Minister of Defense Pål Jonson welcomed Czech Minister of Defense Jana Černochová and marked a significant step in strengthening the Czech Republic's defense capabilities and fulfilling its commitments to NATO.
This vehicle is the first of 246 CV90s to be delivered by BAE Systems and its Czech industry partners, of which 39 vehicles will be produced at BAE Systems facilities in Sweden and 207 in the Czech Republic, with final deliveries expected in 2030. The phased delivery ensures a smooth transition to the new capability, allowing the Czech Army to train crews, integrate the platform into its mechanized brigades, and maintain operational readiness throughout the process.
Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, managing director of BAE Systems Hägglunds, said, "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."
The rollout milestone follows the three-party Agreement between the Czech Republic, the Kingdom of Sweden and BAE Systems Hägglunds, underscoring the Czech Republic's determination to modernize its armed forces and provide its soldiers with the most advanced combat equipment available in Europe.
The CV90 MkIV is the newest generation of the combat-proven CV90 family, designed to give soldiers decisive advantages on the modern battlefield. It is equipped with a 30 mm Bushmaster II automatic cannon, advanced fire control systems, and next-generation sensors that deliver superior situational awareness. Modular armor packages and active protection systems provide enhanced survivability against kinetic and explosive threats, while its powerful engine and adaptive suspension enable unmatched mobility in challenging terrain. Its adaptability allows it to counter a wide range of ground and airborne threats, and its all-terrain resilience guarantees operational readiness in any environment.
The rollout was characterized by the alliance of steel, innovation, and cooperation that is the CV9030MkIV program. The contract, valued at SEK 22 billion ($2.2 billion), provides highly capable vehicles for Czech soldiers while providing Czech industry a significant role in the program to the value of 40% of the contract. The extensive cooperation with local industries includes development, production, and system integration. It benefits the country's industry directly by bolstering the local defense sector, granting access to BAE Systems' global supply chain, expanding opportunities for cooperation, and enhancing local competitiveness, while also increasing its national security of supply and maintaining national sovereignty.
