Denmark Expands CV90 Fleet with $450 Million BAE Systems Order

Denmark Bolsters Armored Capabilities with New CV90 Order

The Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) has placed an order for 44 additional CV90 MkIIIC infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) from BAE Systems. The contract, valued at approximately $450 million, includes spare parts, support, logistics, and training. This latest acquisition significantly expands the Royal Danish Army's future fleet, bringing the total number of CV90 MkIIICs to 159 vehicles.

This procurement builds upon a previous agreement in 2024 for 115 CV90s and is a strategic move to replace a planned mid-life extension program for the existing CV9035DK fleet. The objective is to establish a consolidated, state-of-the-art armored force by the end of 2030.

Strategic Modernization and NATO Commitment

Major General Peter Boysen, Commander of the Danish Army, emphasized the critical role of these vehicles in Denmark's defense strategy. 'The infantry fighting vehicle is an essential part of the combat power in the heavy brigade. It is therefore crucial that we acquire a consolidated fleet of vehicles as quickly as possible,' he stated. He added, 'With the decision to replace the current 44 IFV's with new ones, the Army will have 159 state-of-the-art infantry fighting vehicles by the end of 2030.' This modernization effort is designed to accelerate Denmark's plan to field a fully deployable heavy brigade for NATO by the end of the decade, enhancing its contribution to collective security and international operations.

Advanced Features of the CV90 MkIIIC

The newly ordered CV90 MkIIIC vehicles are built to the same advanced standard as the latest Dutch mid-life upgrade program for the CV9035NL. They will feature a new D35 turret, which offers significant improvements in design and functionality.

Key technological enhancements of the CV90 MkIIIC include:

• A 35 mm Bushmaster III automatic cannon.
• An advanced fire-control system with artificial intelligence elements and separate optical systems for the gunner and commander.
• A stabilized mast-mounted COAPS-L optoelectronic system.
• A Spike-LR2 anti-tank missile system with two missile guides.
• An Iron Fist active protection system.
• Strengthened mine and blast protection, advanced thermal sights, and digital battle management.
• High-mobility Nordic-optimized rubber tracks.

These features are designed to provide superior combat capability and interoperability with allied nations.

BAE Systems' Role and Broader Context

Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, general manager at BAE Systems Hägglunds, commented on the significance of the order: 'This order demonstrates the trust that the Danish Armed Forces have in the CV90's capabilities and our commitment to providing high-quality solutions that meet their evolving needs.' He added that 'The CV9035MkIIIC will position Denmark at the forefront of modern defence by delivering new technology and seamless interoperability with allied nations.'

The CV90 family of IFVs has a proven track record, with over 1,900 vehicles ordered across 17 variants by 10 European nations, including eight NATO members. The vehicles have seen combat in various theaters, including Afghanistan, Ukraine, and operations in Liberia. This procurement aligns with Denmark's long-term Defence Agreement for 2024–2033, which aims to rebuild the armed forces and increase defense spending to at least 2% of GDP. Furthermore, the decision to acquire new vehicles instead of modernizing older ones could potentially free up the existing 44 CV9035DK vehicles for transfer to Ukraine, building on previous joint efforts with Sweden to supply CV90s to the country.