The defence ministers of Ukraine, Czechia and Slovakia have signed a joint declaration on cooperation in the procurement and operation of CV90 tracked infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs). The signing took place during the NATO Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Brussels, where Ukraine was invited as a partner country.
The CV90 is a Swedish-made IFV that offers high performance, mobility, and protection in any terrain and tactical environment. It has been successfully used in various operations around the world by NATO and other allied forces. The latest version, the CV90 MkIV, is one of the most advanced vehicles of its kind on the market.
The joint declaration aims to harmonize the requirements of the three countries’ armies and to explore opportunities for cooperation in production, operation, training, and servicing of the CV90. The declaration does not create any legal or financial obligations between the participants or in relation to third parties. It also does not replace the previous agreement between Czechia and Slovakia on the same topic, signed in August 2022.
All three countries are facing the need to modernize their armoured forces and to enhance their interoperability with NATO and other partners. Ukraine, in particular, is seeking to strengthen its defence capabilities in light of the ongoing Russian aggression. By joining forces with Czechia and Slovakia, Ukraine hopes to benefit from their experience and expertise in procuring and operating the CV90.
The joint declaration is a clear sign of solidarity and support among the three countries, as well as a demonstration of their commitment to collective defence and security. It also shows that Ukraine is increasingly seen as a part of the West and a valued partner by NATO and its allies.
CV90 MkIV infantry fighting vehicle
The CV90 MkIV is the latest version of the CV90 family of infantry fighting vehicles, developed by BAE Systems Hägglunds in Sweden. The CV90 MkIV offers superior mobility, protection and firepower to meet the challenges of modern warfare.
The CV90 MkIV is based on the proven CV90 platform, which has been in service with seven countries since the mid-1990s. The CV90 MkIV features a new engine with up to 1,000 horsepower, a new transmission and an increased gross vehicle weight rating of 37 tonnes. The CV90 MkIV can also be equipped with an active protection system, a new turret with a 35 mm or 40 mm cannon, and an advanced electronic architecture that supports future technology upgrades.
The CV90 MkIV is designed to operate in diverse environments, from arctic conditions to urban warfare. The CV90 MkIV can carry a crew of three and six or eight dismounted soldiers, depending on the variant. The CV90 MkIV also has a modular design that allows for different configurations and roles, such as command and control, reconnaissance, anti-aircraft, mortar and recovery.
The CV90 MkIV is a fifth-generation combat vehicle that combines high performance and versatility with low life-cycle costs and environmental impact. The CV90 MkIV is a reliable and effective platform that enhances the capabilities and survivability of modern armed forces.
