Denmark Conducts Live-Fire with CV9035 MkIIIC One of the World's Most Advanced Infantry Fighting Vehicles.

In a video published by the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO – Forsvarsministeriets Materiel- og Indkøbsstyrelse) on April 6, 2025, the Danish Army is seen conducting live-fire trials with what is set to become one of the most advanced Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) in the world—the CV9035 MkIIIC. The trials were carried out under extreme winter conditions at the BAE Systems Hägglunds testing grounds in northern Sweden, in cooperation with Sweden’s FMV (Försvarets materielverk), which is procuring the same vehicle configuration. This event marks a pivotal milestone in Denmark’s strategic plan to modernize its ground combat capabilities and establish its heavy brigade as a NATO-ready, high-readiness force equipped with cutting-edge technology.
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A Danish Army CV9035 MkIIIC conducts a live-fire exercise in northern Sweden, showcasing its 35mm Bushmaster III cannon and RBS 58 anti-tank missile system during cold-weather trials. (Picture source: Danish MoD)

At the heart of the live-fire demonstration was the CV9035 MkIIIC’s advanced weapon suite. The firing tests prominently featured the 35mm Bushmaster III automatic cannon, a powerful and versatile chain gun developed by Northrop Grumman. The cannon is designed for high-velocity engagements and supports programmable airburst munitions, giving it a lethal advantage over traditional autocannons. With a range exceeding 3,000 meters and a firing rate of up to 200 rounds per minute, the Bushmaster III is capable of neutralizing a wide variety of battlefield threats, including dismounted infantry, light armored vehicles, and aerial targets such as drones. Its integration into the CV9035 MkIIIC underscores Denmark’s commitment to equipping its forces with top-tier firepower.

In addition to the autocannon, the trials showcased the CV9035 MkIIIC’s capability to launch the RBS 58 missile—Sweden’s designation for the Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missile, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and produced under license by Saab. The RBS 58 provides the vehicle with extended standoff strike capability, with an operational range of up to 5.5 kilometers. It features a tandem-charge warhead capable of penetrating advanced explosive reactive armor (ERA), and supports both fire-and-forget and fire-and-update functions through a fiber-optic link. This allows the gunner to switch targets mid-flight or observe the missile’s path in real time, greatly increasing tactical flexibility and target acquisition accuracy in complex combat scenarios.

The new CV9035 MkIIIC Infantry Fighting Vehicle, featuring advanced armor, digital systems, and enhanced firepower, stands ready to become the backbone of Denmark’s future heavy brigade.

The CV9035 MkIIIC itself is the latest iteration of the widely used CV90 family, manufactured by BAE Systems Hägglunds in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. More than 1,500 CV90s have been delivered across Europe, with combat experience informing each successive upgrade. The MkIIIC represents a leap forward in mobility, survivability, firepower, and digitization. In addition to its armament, the vehicle is equipped with the Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS), offering hard-kill defense against incoming anti-tank guided missiles and RPGs. Its modular armor packages, enhanced mine resistance, and blast protection systems ensure high survivability in both conventional and asymmetric warfare environments.

Digitally, the CV9035 MkIIIC is fully networked. A modern electronic architecture allows seamless battlefield integration with other assets, enabling real-time data sharing and enhanced situational awareness. It features 360-degree electro-optical sensor systems, augmented reality targeting, and artificial intelligence-enhanced threat detection—transforming it into a digital battlefield node rather than just a fighting platform. This significantly enhances the commander's ability to make informed decisions and respond rapidly to evolving threats.

Powering this high-tech system is a Scania DI16 V8 diesel engine, delivering 1,000 horsepower. This gives the vehicle a top speed of 70 km/h and an operational range of up to 900 kilometers. With advanced hydropneumatic suspension and rubber band tracks, the CV9035 MkIIIC combines speed, agility, and reduced acoustic and thermal signatures—ensuring high mobility and stealth across diverse terrains.

In January 2024, Denmark signed a €1.3 billion contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds for the acquisition of 115 CV9035 MkIIICs. This major procurement is part of a wider defense modernization initiative, which will see Denmark invest over €16 billion in strengthening its military capabilities by 2033. The new vehicles are set to become the core of Denmark’s future heavy brigade, meeting NATO’s strategic requirements and reinforcing the Danish Army’s ability to respond to regional and international threats.

Denmark’s alignment with Sweden in adopting the same vehicle configuration underscores a broader effort to deepen Nordic defense cooperation. Standardizing platforms among partner nations enhances interoperability, simplifies logistics, and strengthens joint operational capabilities across NATO’s northern flank. Additionally, the program includes strong industrial collaboration with Danish defense companies, ensuring domestic industry benefits from knowledge transfer, supply chain integration, and long-term maintenance responsibilities.

The CV9035 MkIIIC is more than a new armored vehicle—it is a transformative combat platform. With unmatched firepower, modern protection systems, and digital command capabilities, it represents a paradigm shift in Denmark’s approach to mechanized warfare. As Army Recognition continues to follow the vehicle’s testing and upcoming deliveries, this development is clearly setting a new benchmark for European IFVs and reinforcing Denmark’s role as a forward-leaning, capable military force within NATO.