Swedish Army to receive new CV9035 MkIIIC combat vehicles to replace CV9040Cs sent to Ukraine.

On October 26, 2024, the Swedish Army presented the CV9035 Mk.IIIC at the P7 South Scanian Regiment in Sweden. The country plans to acquire 50 of these units as replacements for the CV9040C models, which were recently donated to Ukraine. This vehicle, part of the CV90 family developed by BAE Systems Hägglunds, was showcased without the additional armor that will be included in the final version. Similar presentations have occurred in Denmark, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

One of the most significant changes is in the weapon system, where the 40 mm Bofors cannon used on earlier models has been replaced by a 35 mm Bushmaster cannon. (Picture source: Swedish MoD)

The decision to replace the CV9040C units comes as part of Sweden’s effort to replenish its fleet after donating over 50 vehicles to Ukraine. The replacement, designated CV9035 internationally and Stridsfordon 9035 in Sweden, combines a CV90 Mk III chassis with a turret from the Mk IV version. One of the most significant changes is in the weapon system, where the 40 mm Bofors cannon used on earlier models has been replaced by a 35 mm Bushmaster cannon. This cannon upgrade is expected to maintain effectiveness through the use of programmable ammunition. In addition, the CV9035 Mk.IIIC is equipped with two Rbs 58 missiles, a modified version of the Akeron MP anti-tank system, enhancing its ability to engage enemy armored vehicles, including tanks.

The CV9035 Mk.IIIC focuses on improved protection. Weighing approximately 35 tons, much of its weight is due to added armor. It is equipped with sensors and countermeasures intended to detect and respond to threats such as anti-tank missiles, including a system that can deploy a defensive projectile to intercept an incoming missile. The vehicle also features rubber tracks, replacing the steel tracks of older models, and a rear ramp instead of the traditional hatch. It retains a troop capacity of six to seven personnel in the passenger compartment.

A 360-degree camera system has been added to improve crew situational awareness. The version shown in Sweden matches the model being purchased by the Netherlands, though the Swedish version will feature added armor in the final configuration.

In May 2024, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) signed a contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds for the acquisition of new CV9035 Mk.IIIC vehicles, along with integrated logistic support. Although the exact number of vehicles and the contract value were not disclosed, it is estimated that around 50 units were ordered, potentially valued at up to $360 million. Deliveries are expected between 2025 and 2027. The CV9035 Mk.IIIC is built to the standards set in the Netherlands' mid-life upgrade program, which includes a redesigned turret with ergonomic adjustments.

This contract represents part of Sweden’s effort to modernize its armored vehicle fleet and replace the CV9040 models that were sent to Ukraine. In addition to the Swedish order, the contract includes provisions for the production of more CV90 vehicles to support Ukraine’s defense needs. This acquisition highlights Sweden’s ongoing attempts to maintain its operational capacity and to support its defense partnerships with other nations.

The CV90 family, which has been in service since the 1990s, includes a wide range of variants adapted to different operational needs. These vehicles have been ordered in large quantities, with over 1,700 units serving in various roles such as air defense, reconnaissance, and armored recovery. The CV90 platform continues to be operated by several countries, including Norway, Finland, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Slovakia, which have adopted it for their respective defense forces. As Sweden looks to modernize its fleet, the CV9035 Mk.IIIC is expected to play a key role in fulfilling the country’s military requirements in the coming years.

The agreement with BAE Systems Hägglunds to supply the new vehicles was finalized by Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, Managing Director of BAE Systems Hägglunds, and Brigadier General Jonas Lotsne, Director of Land Systems at the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV). This contract follows Sweden’s donation of 50 CV90 40C vehicles to Ukraine, after which the country initiated this replacement program to maintain the strength of its armored units. The new CV9035 Mk.IIIC vehicles are designed to meet the Swedish Army’s updated specifications, incorporating advanced systems to support future upgrades and operational needs.