Breaking News: Nordic NATO Allies Expand Joint Procurement of Swedish BAE Systems CV90 IFVs.

On June 5, 2025, the Nordic-led coalition of NATO countries expanded its joint procurement initiative for the CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), developed by Swedish firm BAE Systems Hägglunds AB, a leading European producer of armored combat vehicles. Originally comprising four nations, the coalition now includes Norway, Finland, Sweden, Estonia, Lithuania, and the Netherlands, marking a significant evolution toward creating a unified mechanized force in Northern Europe. This collaborative effort, as reported by multiple Ministries of Defence during the NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting in Brussels, represents a landmark in European defense cooperation amid the ongoing security challenges on the continent. 
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The latest iterations, such as the CV90 MkIV, feature enhanced digitization, advanced battlefield management systems, and improved lethality with a 35mm or 40mm autocannon (Picture source: BAE Systems)

The CV90 is a state-of-the-art tracked infantry fighting vehicle falling into the category of modern armored combat systems. It is designed to enhance the survivability, mobility, and firepower of infantry units while providing superior protection against ballistic and explosive threats. Currently operated by 11 European countries, the CV90 offers modularity and adaptability, capable of fulfilling a wide range of battlefield roles including troop transport, direct fire support, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation. The new joint procurement plan envisions acquiring not only combat vehicles but also integrated training systems, munitions, and spare parts.

Originally developed in the 1990s and constantly upgraded since, the CV90 has proven itself in demanding operational theaters, including Afghanistan, where it demonstrated high mobility and excellent crew protection in complex environments. The latest iterations, such as the CV90 MkIV, feature enhanced digitization, advanced battlefield management systems, and improved lethality with a 35mm or 40mm autocannon. This long-standing development pathway underscores the CV90’s adaptability to modern warfare requirements and its strong industrial backing by BAE Systems Hägglunds AB in Sweden.

Compared to other platforms in the same class, such as Germany’s Puma IFV or the American Bradley Fighting Vehicle, the CV90 stands out for its balance of mobility, protection, and versatility. The vehicle’s superior adaptability to different mission profiles, commonality across multiple user nations, and open architecture for future upgrades provide decisive operational advantages. By standardizing on the CV90, the coalition nations will achieve unparalleled interoperability, reduced logistical complexity, and significant cost efficiencies, especially in joint training and maintenance.

The strategic implications of this procurement are substantial. Geopolitically, it strengthens NATO’s northern flank and signals a concerted European effort to field interoperable forces capable of rapid joint deployment. Militarily, it enhances the deterrence posture of frontline states bordering Russia by fielding cohesive and modernized mechanized infantry formations. The agreement also reflects a broader NATO drive, inspired by lessons from the war in Ukraine, to harmonize military equipment among allies to maximize operational synergy and sustainability under combat conditions. Norway is set to procure approximately 80 new CV90s through this agreement, while Finland, Sweden, Lithuania, Estonia, and the Netherlands are preparing similar acquisitions, making this one of the largest recent armored vehicle contracts in Europe.

This deepening coalition procurement initiative marks a pivotal moment for European defense. It not only exemplifies effective multinational collaboration in response to evolving security threats but also sets a precedent for future joint capability projects within NATO. By aligning their armored vehicle fleets around the battle-tested CV90 platform, these nations are building a cohesive and resilient force structure that will bolster collective defense for years to come.