Czech Republic Unveils $2.2 Billion Deal with BAE Systems for 246 CV90 Armored Vehicles

The Czech Republic has proficiently finalized discussions with the Swedish government, the Swedish defense procurement agency FMV, and BAE Systems Hägglunds to acquire 246 CV90 MkIV infantry combat vehicles in seven distinct configurations. This agreement is valued at SEK 22 billion ($2.2 billion). The contract ensures that highly-capable vehicles will be provided for Czech soldiers while also offering the Czech industry a substantial role within the program.

“As the ninth participant of the CV90 User Group, the Czech Republic and its Army will gain from this combat-tested infantry combat vehicle, which boasts an exceptional mix of agility, weaponry, protection, and potential for future enhancements,” stated Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, managing director of BAE Systems Hägglunds, in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. “This agreement also signifies a remarkable victory for the Czech industry, promising benefits for decades.”

The CV90s will be developed and supplied through a collaborative partnership with Czech industry to fulfill the demands of the Czech Ministry of Defence, while striving to uphold national sovereignty for the Czech Republic. Czech industrial collaborators will contribute 40% of the total acquisition value through development, production, and assembly contracts, exclusive of VAT.

This initiative also presents future industrial prospects that represent considerable monetary value well beyond the transfer of contracts to Czech industrial players. The contract will enhance the local defense industry, providing access to BAE Systems’ global supply chains, broadening the scope for collaboration, and improving local competitiveness.

The CV90 MKIV, the newest generation of the premier infantry combat vehicle, is an exemplary, combat-tested asset. The CV90 has been deployed globally in coalition operations under both NATO and UN frameworks. The vehicle delivers outstanding tactical and strategic capabilities to engage a diverse range of ground and aerial targets, along with remarkable durability in any terrain and operational environment.

BAE Systems Hägglunds has manufactured over 1,400 CV90s in 17 variants for various European nations, five of which are NATO allies. Slovakia has recently chosen the CV90 for its armed forces, joining the Czech Republic as the eighth and ninth member nations, respectively, of the CV90 User Group.