Sweden and Denmark have joined forces to produce advanced infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) for Ukraine. The collaboration will result in the production of 35 new CV9035NL Mid-Life Update IFVs, with Denmark financing the project and Sweden handling the construction. This move comes as Ukraine seeks to enhance its military capabilities and strengthen its defense against Russian aggression.
The CV9035NL Mid-Life Update IFV is a highly advanced vehicle, weighing 37 tons and accommodating 11 personnel. It is equipped with state-of-the-art features, making it a formidable asset for the Ukrainian military. One of its key features is the commander’s stabilized thermal vision, which provides enhanced visibility and situational awareness. Additionally, both the commander and gunner have access to third-generation thermal vision systems and laser rangefinders, allowing them to independently search for targets day or night with high resolution.
Another notable feature of the CV9035NL MLU is its warning system, which alerts the crew when an enemy vehicle is targeting it with a laser rangefinder or laser-guided missile. This provides the crew with valuable time to react, either by deploying smoke screens or engaging in suppressing fire.
In terms of protection, the CV90 has several measures in place to safeguard its occupants. The seats are fixed to the roof and sides of the vehicle to minimize the impact of mine strikes. Additionally, a spall-liner reduces the risk of shrapnel injuring the crew and passengers. The exact composition of the vehicle’s armor remains a secret, but it is known that the turret boasts a new armor composition that enhances overall protection.
The armament of the CV9035NL MLU has also been upgraded. Unlike its predecessor, which was armed with a 40-millimeter Bofors auto-cannon, the new IFV is equipped with a 35-millimeter Bushmaster Mk. III. The smaller size of the round allows for a larger ammunition load-out, providing the crew with increased firepower. Furthermore, the turret features a launcher for two Spike LR fire-and-forget top-attack anti-tank missiles, which have a range of up to three miles. This gives the CV90 crew the advantage of being able to fire a missile and immediately move out, unlike the Ukrainian M-2 IFV, which requires the crew to guide the missile throughout its flight.
While it is uncertain whether the Ukrainian version of the CV9035NL MLU will receive additional protection systems such as the Iron Fist active protection system, the vehicle’s existing features already make it a formidable asset. Once it enters service, potentially next year, it could become the most advanced IFV in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia.
The joint production of these advanced IFVs by Sweden and Denmark demonstrates their commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense efforts. By equipping the Ukrainian military with cutting-edge technology and capabilities, they aim to enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression. The collaboration between these two countries serves as a testament to the importance of international partnerships in maintaining global security and stability.