Denmark’s Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) has signed a contract with BAE Systems for the mid-life upgrade of the Danish CV90 fleet.
With the agreement solidified, BAE Systems is poised to integrate the latest D-series turret into the Danish CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, improving their design and functionality. This upgrade ensures enhanced vehicle balance and introduces many weaponry options for heightened lethality, advancing combat capability.
Denmark has unveiled plans to allocate $5.9bn (DKr40.6bn) to key military capabilities from 2024 to 2029. The expansion in defence spending is aimed at addressing potential threats, particularly from Russia, and accelerating investment in vital military assets. This initiative includes strengthening the Danish Army’s 1st Brigade and upgrading main battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles.
In March 2024, BAE Systems secured a 15-year support deal with the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation worth approximately $400m to provide repair and maintenance services for Denmark’s 44 CV90 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) fleet.
This move is part of a broader European effort to bolster military readiness in response to Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It follows Denmark pledging DKr1.8bn ($27m) to procure CV90s for Ukraine, in collaboration with Sweden, as part of a joint statement of intent in December 2023.
Lieutenant General Kim Jesper Jørgensen, director of DALO, emphasised the significance of this upgrade, stating, “It is an important upgrade of one of the Army’s most important weapon systems.” This sentiment reveals the important role that the CV90 fleet plays in Denmark’s national defence strategy.
Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, managing director of BAE Systems Hägglunds, highlighted the nature of the upgrades, emphasising that they will provide Danish CV90 crews with improved protection and increased combat efficiency. Furthermore, integrating rubber tracks will reduce vehicle weight and minimise the long-term biomechanical impact on crew members, ensuring sustained operational effectiveness.
The inclusion of anti-tank guided missile systems and Defence Aid Suite sensor technology further shows Denmark’s commitment to improving its CV90 fleet amid evolving battlefield threats.
BAE Systems Hägglunds’ CV90 infantry fighting vehicle has served in numerous theatres of operation. With over 1,700 vehicles ordered across 17 variants, the CV90 is trusted by NATO members and deployed in conflict zones worldwide.
Other European nations receiving an upgrade of their CV90s include the Netherlands. In October 2022, BAE Systems unveiled its upgraded CV90 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) for the Royal Netherlands Army.
