BAE Systems CV90 MkIV new evolution of IFV armoured for modern battlefield


They all benefit from the continuous development of one of the world’s most modern, versatile, reliable, and combat-proven vehicles – the CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). The CV90s combination of firepower, mobility and protection is the cornerstone of the platform. An IFV that has evolved over more than two decades, the highly-adaptable CV90 builds on its legacy as a benchmark when it comes to best-in-class IFVs.


BAE Systems CV90 MkIV new evolution of IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicle tracked armoured for modern battlefield 925 001
Drawing of the CV90 MkIV, a new generation of tracked IFV armoured Infantry Fighting Vehicle (Picture source BAE Systems)


The essence of the CV90 has always been to keep advancing to the next phase. From the original requirements set by the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) in the mid-90s to the most recent version of the CV90 delivered to the Norwegian Army, the time has come to introduce a new generation to the family – the fifth generation, CV90 MkIV.

“As a company, we have constantly focused on ways to introduce new technologies to the CV90 to enhance its performance, maintain the fighting edge and to keep the CV90 among the leading vehicles when it comes to ground operations,” said Dan Lindell, CV90 Program Manager at BAE Systems Hägglunds.

The CV90 MkIV was born out of a research and development program where we incorporated feedback from the seven nations that currently use the CV90 platform. With upgrades to the drivetrain, the CV90 MkIV now has a new engine and an upgraded heavy duty transmission, while providing users with an additional two tonnes of payload to utilize without compromising the vehicle’s agility.

Additionally, the CV90 MkIV is equipped with the latest fourth generation Electronic Architecture built to NATO Standard. This not only allows sensor data fusion to be more effective, but also positions the vehicle to support future technology growth and capabilities like Augmented Reality, machine-learning concepts, Artificial Intelligence and autonomous crew support.

“The key strength for the continuous growth of CV90 capability is the leveraging of mature designs that minimize developmental risk and the application of new technologies to stay ahead of any potential adversary on the battlefield,” Lindell said. “We believe that the MkIV iteration of this vehicle very much accomplishes that.”


BAE Systems CV90 MkIV new evolution of IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicle tracked armoured for modern battlefield 925 002
Latest generation of CV90 presented in London at DSEI defense exhibition in September 2017 (Picture source Army Recognition)


The CV90 MkIV represents the next step in the evolution of the CV90 concept. Building on a proud legacy of best-in-class mobility and survivability spanning more than two decades, the CV90 MkIV brings unrivalled technological capabilities and flexibility to today’s complex battlefield.

With a new engine, the MkIV boasts up to 1,000 horsepower and the latest upgraded X300 heavy-duty transmission. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is increased from 35 tonnes to 37 tonnes, offering users two tonnes of extra payload without a decrease in vehicle agility. The MkIV generation will also be the first Western IFV with a qualified Active Protection System.


CV90s have been deployed by national forces, the UN and NATO in missions across the globe, from Afghanistan to Liberia. With an investment of more than 4.5 million engineering hours to date, BAE Systems remains committed to further advancing future generations of the CV90.

BAE Systems has a great deal of experience and proven track record when it comes to industrial cooperation and that approach continues to be one of the most important factors behind our successful customer relationships. In the last 10 years we have delivered benefits to local industry totalling £6bn/CZK 201bn. Across the CV90 platform, these demonstrated mutually-beneficial relationships include Norway, Finland, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Denmark.

A combat-proven, low-risk, state-of-the-art solution founded on collaboration with local Czech industry, the CV90 MkIV will meet the Czech Republic’s defense and security requirements – now and well into the future.