Czech Republic, Sweden and BAE Systems sign MoU for new infantry fighting vehicles
Prague, Czech Republic and Falls Church, Va. – 21 December 2022 – The Czech Republic, Sweden and BAE Systems have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) providing a framework for negotiations on an agreement for the supply of CV90 combat vehicles to the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic. Contract negotiations will take place in the first half of 2023.
Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding, the governments of Sweden and the Czech Republic will cooperate in military affairs including training, support and ongoing training for troops and equipment operators, as well as cooperation on the acquisition and support of CV90 combat vehicles. The agreement also states the possibility of future cooperation between the two nations around the development of upgrades, new technology and ongoing support for the CV90.
The MoU specifies that the ongoing negotiations with BAE Systems will include: reaching an agreement for the purchase of 210 infantry fighting vehicles; meet the need for domestic long-term support for the vehicles; and fulfill the requirement of a commitment to a robust program of Czech industrial participation.
“We are very pleased with the progress we have made in our discussions with the Czech Republic and the Kingdom of Sweden,” said Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, CEO of BAE Systems Hägglunds in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, which designs and manufactures the CV90. “We look forward to concluding contract negotiations in the new year, with the commitment to support the Czech Armed Forces in improving their defense and combat capabilities with the modern, combat-proven CV90.”
Under the proposed agreement, the Czech Army will receive the latest version of the CV90, known as the CV90MkIV, with the latest advanced capabilities and digital technology. The vehicle combines improved battlefield speed and handling with an upgraded electronic architecture to support future growth and meet the needs of the evolving battlefield.
The Czech Republic will become the ninth member of the CV90 User Club – which includes countries that have the CV90 in service with their armed forces. The user club already consists of eight countries, five of which are members of NATO: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, as well as the newest member, Slovakia.
Photo courtesy of BAE Systems