The Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced the procurement of additional CV90 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs).

The acquisition will be carried out under a joint European program involving Estonia, Finland, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden, aimed at reducing costs and enhancing interoperability.

No further details about the procurement have been shared.

The new vehicles will equip an additional armored infantry battalion of the Royal Netherlands Army’s 13th Light Brigade, to be based at the Nassau-Dietz Barracks in Budel.

“This battalion, with its high mobility and firepower, will contribute to the infantry,” the MoD stated in a press release.

“In preparing for a potential large-scale conflict, strengthening the infantry is essential.”

The announcement follows the signing of an agreement in November with Sweden, Finland, Norway, Lithuania, and Estonia covering the joint development, operation, and maintenance of the CV90 system. 

The main contract is expected to be finalized in early 2026. 

More than 20 Dutch companies are expected to participate as subcontractors, including work related to the modernization of the existing CV90 fleet.

Mid-Life Upgrade 

A total of 122 CV90s currently in service with the Royal Netherlands Army are undergoing mid-life upgrades under a contract valued at approximately $500 million. 

The modernization is being carried out by CV90 manufacturer BAE Systems Hägglunds to ensure the vehicles are equipped with enhanced protection against evolving threats.

The upgrade includes improvements to the vehicle’s turret design, based on a study conducted by the Royal Netherlands Army to enhance man-machine interaction. 

These changes are intended to give operators greater flexibility in selecting effective modes of operation while reducing detection, identification, and engagement times. 

An active protection system will also be integrated to defend against anti-tank missiles. The modernization program is expected to be completed by 2026.

CV90 Vehicle

The tracked platform is designed to deliver optimal mobility, agility, and firepower, particularly in subarctic environments. 

It can carry up to eight personnel and reach a top speed of 70 kilometers (43 miles) per hour. 

To date, the vehicle has been procured by 10 countries, including Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, the Netherlands, and Finland.