Focus: CV90120—A Continually Developing Medium Tank Prototype.

The CV90120 is the latest variant in the renowned CV90 infantry fighting vehicle family, developed by BAE Systems Hägglunds. Designed to combine the firepower of a main battle tank (MBT) with the mobility of a lighter vehicle, the CV90120 represents a significant advancement in the field of medium tanks. Since its initial development in the 1990s, the CV90 family has established itself as one of the most respected infantry fighting vehicles globally, thanks to its proven performance in real-world conditions and its many variants tailored to meet specific military needs. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

CV90120-T firing its L/50 Smoothbore  (Picture source: BAE Systems)

The CV90's history dates back to 1982, when Sweden began developing a new armored weapon system. The goal was to create a family of armored vehicles on a unified chassis capable of performing various missions, from infantry fighting vehicles to command and support vehicles. The result was the Stridsfordon 90, commonly known as the CV90. Over the years, several variants have been developed, each incorporating improvements in armament, protection, and mobility.

The CV90 is distinguished by its high tactical and strategic mobility, powered by a robust engine and designed for challenging terrains. Its advanced armor and active protection systems make it capable of surviving in intense combat environments. Notable users of the CV90 include Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and the Netherlands, each having adapted the vehicle variants to their specific needs. More recently, the CV90 has proven its effectiveness in Ukraine, where it has demonstrated its robustness and operational capabilities in real combat conditions.

The CV90120, in contrast, is a specialized variant of the CV90, developed to meet a specific demand for high firepower in a lighter and more mobile vehicle. This medium tank is equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore cannon capable of firing all standard NATO ammunition types. The cannon is stabilized on two planes, allowing for precise firing while on the move. With a firing rate of 12 to 14 rounds per minute, it offers firepower comparable to that of main battle tanks while benefiting from better mobility and reduced weight.

The CV90120 also integrates active protection systems such as the AMAP-ADS, which provides effective defense against anti-tank missiles and kinetic projectiles. Additionally, the vehicle employs thermal and radar signature reduction technologies, increasing its stealth on the battlefield. The latest version, known as the CV90120-T "Ghost," incorporates Adaptive camouflage technology, allowing the vehicle to blend into its environment by altering its thermal signature.

The CV90120 is designed to offer high tactical and strategic mobility, with a combat weight of 38 tons and a maximum speed of 70 km/h. The vehicle is powered by a 1000-horsepower Scania diesel engine, providing excellent performance on all types of terrain. Its operational road range is 600 km, and it can overcome vertical obstacles of one meter and cross trenches of 2.6 meters.

The CV90120 is also equipped with an advanced digital fire control system, allowing for quick and accurate target acquisition. The vehicle features a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun and can carry up to 45 rounds of 120 mm ammunition, including 12 ready to fire in the turret and 33 stored in the rear hull. The semi-automatic loader system enables a high rate of fire, enhancing combat effectiveness.

The CV90 is distinguished by its high tactical and strategic mobility, powered by a robust engine and designed for challenging terrains (Picture source: BAE Systems)

In terms of protection, the CV90120 uses a combination of steel armor and additional protection modules. The AMAP-ADS active protection system, developed by Rheinmetall, provides defense against guided anti-tank missiles, portable anti-tank weapons, and kinetic projectiles of various calibers. The vehicle is also equipped with the Adaptive thermal camouflage system, which reduces its thermal signature by modulating the temperature of its exterior panels to mimic the environment or other objects.

The Adaptive technology allows the CV90120 to become nearly invisible to enemy thermal sensors by using hexagonal modules that can rapidly heat or cool. This camouflage capability is reinforced by an active jamming system that disrupts enemy missile guidance systems. The vehicle can also display messages or recognizable patterns for friendly forces, adding an extra layer of operational security.

The market potential for the CV90120 is promising, particularly due to the growing demand for lightweight yet powerful armored vehicles. Compared to other medium tanks developed by international companies, the CV90120-T stands out for its unique combination of mobility, firepower, and advanced protection systems. As armed forces seek solutions to bridge the gap between infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks, the CV90120-T positions itself as a viable and effective option.

Opportunities for the CV90120 on the international market are vast. Its innovative design and advanced capabilities make it an ideal candidate for armies looking to modernize their armored forces without investing in heavier and more expensive main battle tanks. The CV90120 can offer firepower equivalent to MBTs while maintaining greater mobility and strategic flexibility. Countries with specific defense needs, such as those facing challenging terrains or requiring rapid deployment capabilities, will find the CV90120 to be a suitable solution.

In conclusion, the CV90120 represents a significant evolution within the CV90 family, offering a balanced solution between firepower and mobility. As the needs of armed forces continue to evolve, vehicles like the CV90120 could play a crucial role in future military operations. Nations interested in acquiring this technology may soon benefit from the advantages offered by this innovative medium tank. The growing popularity of medium tanks and their adoption by various armies worldwide highlight the importance of such innovations in the modern defense landscape.

The Adaptive technology allows the CV90120 to become nearly invisible to enemy thermal sensors by using hexagonal modules that can rapidly heat or cool (Picture source: BAE Systems)