BAE Systems To Modernize Denmark’s CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicles
Last week, the Danish Ministry of Defense’s Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO) signed a contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds for the mid-life upgrade (MLU) of the Royal Army’s (Hæren) CV90 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs). The contract in question follows a framework agreement for repair and maintenance services signed by the parties on February 28, 2024, worth approximately $400 million.
Under the terms of the contract, BAE Systems will integrate the new D-series turret, which will significantly improve the stability of Denmark’s 44 CV9035DK infantry fighting vehicles and offer a variety of weapon options to increase lethality. This new turret, which will significantly increase both the lethality and protection of Danish units, consists of a number of advanced systems, including a 50mm gun, Elbit Systems’ Iron Fist Active Protection System and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems’ SPIKE-LR long-range anti-tank guided missile.
Upgrades also include equipping Danish CV90s with rubber tracks, which reduce the vehicle’s weight, freeing up payload for the addition of new systems, and reduce noise and vibrations, minimizing long-term biomechanical impact on the crew and crew fatigue. The program will take place from 2026 to 2029 and will be carried out in close collaboration with Danish industry.
Lieutenant General Kim Jesper Jørgensen, Director of the Danish Acquisition and Logistics Organization, stated, “I am very pleased to sign this contract for Mid-Life Update of the Danish CV90 fleet. It is an important upgrade of one of the Army’s most important weapon systems. As the manufacturer of the vehicles, BAE Systems Hägglunds has a great knowledge of the capability, and the upcoming upgrade will bring the vehicles back to a state-of-the-art platform that will ensure it is equipped for future operations.”
Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, general manager of BAE Systems Hägglunds, which designs and manufactures the CV90 family, stated that these upgrades will provide the Danish CV90 crew with increased protection and combat effectiveness, while also ensuring the Royal Danish Army’s existing CV90 fleet’s functionality.
According to BAE Systems, the CV90 has traveled more than eight million kilometers and proven itself globally, with 1,700 vehicles ordered in 17 different variants. It was selected by ten European nations, eight of which are NATO members, and has been operated in Liberia and seen combat in Afghanistan and Ukraine.