Dutch Army Unveils First Modernized CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicle.

The first modernized CV9035NL Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) has been unveiled by the Royal Netherlands Army. This prototype, known as the First of Type 4 (FoT4), marks a significant milestone in enhancing the capabilities of the Dutch ground forces. This information was made public by the Dutch Ministry of Defence on 2 July 2024.
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The CV9035NL Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) (Picture source: Dutch MoD)

The modernized vehicle is equipped with the new D35 turret, a key component of the Mk.IV variant, although the vehicle itself retains a Mk.III hull. This hybrid configuration incorporates several cutting-edge improvements, distinguishing it from its predecessors.

The D35 turret is a highlight of the modernized CV90, equipped with a 35mm cannon and the mast-mounted COAPS-L (Compact Optoelectronic Advanced Stabilized System). This system significantly enhances the vehicle’s surveillance and targeting capabilities. Additionally, the turret includes the Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS) and the Spike-LR2 Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) pod.

The electronic architecture of the CV9035NL MLU has also undergone substantial improvements, integrating modern technologies to enhance overall functionality and interoperability with other military systems.

While the D35 turret represents a major advancement, the vehicle retains the Mk.III hull with several enhancements. This approach combines the best of both worlds, leveraging the proven reliability of the Mk.III platform while integrating advanced features from the Mk.IV variant. Officially designated as the Mk.IIIC by BAE Systems, this version represents the third iteration of the third generation of CV90 vehicles.

This configuration has also been chosen for the Ukrainian and Swedish Armed Forces. However, it is noteworthy that the Ukrainian versions are unlikely to utilize the ATGM or APS systems, focusing instead on other capabilities.

On the left, 1 of the 2 heads of the Active Protection System. On the right, the new system that gives the commander a stabilised view of his surroundings over long distances, called Electronic Optical Panoramic Sight. (Picture source: Dutch MoD)

The first serially produced Mk.IV CV90s will be delivered to Slovakia and the Czech Republic, with a total of 398 vehicles on order. This collaborative effort highlights the ongoing commitment of European nations to modernize their military capabilities and ensure interoperability among NATO allies.

The unveiling of the modernized CV9035NL MLU IFV underscores the Netherlands’ dedication to maintaining a robust and technologically advanced military force. As these vehicles enter service, they will play a crucial role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Dutch Army, ensuring it remains well-equipped to face future challenges.

The Dutch Army has implemented an exemplary development and innovation process for this upgrade. In close collaboration with technical experts and end users, primarily from the younger generation, the army worked closely with the Swedish manufacturer BAE Systems Hägglunds to enhance the vehicle.

More and better cameras for better situational awareness. (Picture source: Dutch MoD)

Adjutant Helmich Lambrechts, representing the end users from the Kenniscentrum Grondgebonden Manoeuvre, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration: “With a team of 40 to 50 people from the CV90 community, we worked together on this project. We traveled several times to Sweden to test and improve the vehicle, which was a unique experience for the supplier.”

The development and testing process was preceded by many years of technical research. Felix Slot, technical expert from the Commando Materieel & IT (COMMIT), explains: “We constantly strive to anticipate future battlefield needs and develop the necessary technologies to meet them.” This work has led to the development of advanced systems such as the Active Protection System (APS), which intercepts incoming threats and calculates their point of origin.

The APS, which will be used for the first time within NATO by the Dutch, is considered revolutionary. This system, along with other improvements like rubber tracks to reduce vibrations and enhance crew comfort, makes the CV90 a highly sought-after vehicle within the alliance. “We are now a preferred customer for the manufacturer due to our extensive expertise,” says Lambrechts.

Although the first new model will not be operational until 2026, COMMIT’s technical experts are already planning the next generation of CV90s for 2040. In the meantime, the production and maintenance of the new model will be primarily carried out by Dutch companies, with increased collaboration with Sweden and Denmark for the production of vehicles destined for Ukraine.

The first CV9035NL MLU model will be introduced as early as September this year, marking the beginning of a new era for the Dutch Army.

The first modernized CV9035NL Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) has been unveiled by the Royal Netherlands Army. (Picture source: Dutch MoD)