Defense company BAE Systems issued a press release on May 21 announcing a contract signed with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to supply new CV9035 MkIIIC infantry fighting vehicles and provide comprehensive logistical support to the Swedish military. As noted, these new IFVs will replace the ones that the Swedish government had provided to Ukraine as military aid starting 2023.

But the most interesting part of the message is where BAE Systems notes that the Swedish government is also purchasing additional CV90 armored vehicles to expand Ukraine’s capabilities. “These new CV9035 MkIIICs will extend the capabilities of both the Swedish and Ukrainian armies and provide crews improved combat awareness, increased mobility, protection, and lethality,” said Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, Managing Director of BAE Systems Hägglunds.

For a reminder, the supply of one of the latest versions of CV90 infantry vehicle to Ukraine was announced in February 2024, as part of the USD 680 million defense assistance package from Sweden. At the time, media reported that the new IFVs for the Ukrainian Army would be similar to those currently being manufactured for the Netherlands.

Another milestone important to mention here is that in the fall of 2023, BAE Systems Hägglunds secured a contract for the preliminary contractual design, i.e. the first step towards procurement of vehicles to replace those donated to Ukraine by the Swedish military. A big batch order for the CV9035 MkIIIC vehicles was expected to be placed in early 2024.

In this pursuit, BAE Systems really chose the most optimal way possible: the company notes that the CV9035 MkIIIC is “built to the same standard as the newest CV90 mid-life upgrade program for the Netherlands.” Particularly:

“The vehicles will be equipped with a new turret which provides a leap forward in design and functionality. It also offers significant ergonomic improvements to benefit the vehicle’s crew. The vehicle is built on years of combat-proven experience, continuous improvements, and data gathering from the CV90 User Club, which comprises the nations operating CV90 fleets.”

To add more detail, let’s take a look at the modernization program of СV90 for the Netherlands, which will become the basis for the upgraded CV9035 MkIIIC in both Swedish and Ukrainian military. The program has been running since 2021 and introduces a redesigned turret, a retractable panoramic sight, a new fire control system implementing elements of artificial intelligence, and other improvements.

However, the version for the Netherlands also received the Iron Fist active protection system and Spike anti-tank missiles — these weapons are produced by Israel, so the transfer of combat vehicles with these systems to Ukraine requires a permission from Jerusalem. The chances to get one are close to none considering the political background. Therefore, Ukraine might receive not the fully packed but a bit downgraded, although still advanced version of the CV90 infantry fighting vehicle. Alternatively, the Swedes could go for other options for active protection and anti-tank weapons, so that the Israeli factor is no longer relevant in this case.

Earlier Defense Express reported that BAE Systems is also poised to open its factory in Ukraine. Besides providing service to the combat vehicles in the Ukrainian Army, the manufacturer will gradually switch to producing new equipment in the country, including all kinds of CV90s and L119 howitzers.

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