Denmark’s Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (FMI) has committed nearly 10bn DKK to procure 115 CV9035 MKIIIC armoured vehicles to add to its military capability.
Denmark has invested in its military capabilities with the recent announcement of a 9.975bn DKK (approx. €1.34bn) direct award contract for the procurement of 115 CV9035 MKIIIC infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs). The contract, awarded to BAE Systems Hägglunds AB, Sweden, emphasises the necessity of a heavy brigade in the face of growing geopolitical tensions in Europe.
Numerous countries have adopted the CV90 armoured combat vehicle platform. Sweden recently expanded its fleet with an additional 20 CV90 Mjölner mortar systems, increasing its total to 80. Slovakia and Czechia have also committed to acquiring and enhancing their CV90s, with Czechia purchasing 246 units and Slovakia integrating sight and fire control systems. Meanwhile, in collaboration with Sweden, Denmark is financing the delivery of additional CV90s to Ukraine.
The deal, negotiated without prior competition, reflects Denmark’s need for vehicles that meet specific operational requirements, including interoperability with its current fleet and with Nato partners.
According to GlobalData’s intelligence on Denmark’s defence market, the Danish Army has 44 of the CV9035, acquiring the infantry fighting vehicles from BAE Systems AB between 2008 and 2010.
FMI justified its decision to forgo a public tender by arguing that only BAE Systems Hägglunds could meet these technical and operational demands, particularly given Denmark’s existing use of the CV9035 platform.
This procurement is part of an effort to modernise Denmark’s military infrastructure. The CV9035 MKIIIC model, an upgraded version of the CV90 series, is equipped with enhanced armour, electronic warfare systems, and improved mobility. These features make it an asset in both conventional and asymmetric warfare scenarios.
BAE Systems Hägglunds is based in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. The company’s relationship with Denmark dates back several years, with previous deliveries of CV90 models having established a foundation of mutual operational understanding. The CV9035 MKIIIC contract, set to span five years, will see vehicles delivered to multiple defence locations across Denmark, further cementing this collaboration.
While the exact delivery timeline remains flexible, FMI has indicated that the contract will conclude once all units have been delivered and fully integrated into the Danish Armed Forces. The deal also includes provisions for long-term maintenance and support.
Recently, Denmark has been strengthening its existing CV90 infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) fleet through a mid-life upgrade and a long-term support deal with BAE Systems. The upgrade, which includes integrating the latest D-series turret and weaponry, aims to enhance combat capability and vehicle balance. A 15-year, $400m agreement also ensures ongoing repair and maintenance for Denmark’s 44 CV90s.
