The purchase of 246 CV90 tracked infantry fighting vehicles for more than CZK 50 billion is not only a significant step in the necessary modernization of the Czech Army's equipment, but also a huge opportunity for representatives of the Czech defense industry. The Swedes have contractually committed to ensuring that Czech defense industry's involvement will amount to at least 40% of the contract value.

Video: The new CV90 IFVs are a significant milestone not only for the Czech Army, but also for the Czech defense industry. / CZ DEFENCE

A number of Czech companies are currently involved in the CV90 project for the Czech Armed Forces. The Czech involvement in the project is led by the state-owned company VOP CZ, which has become the key integrator and coordinator. It is at VOP CZ that over 200 tracked armored vehicles will be assembled and subsequently tested in the coming years.

Another important partner in the CV90 project for the Czech Armed Forces is Excalibur Army, which will manufacture turrets and supply other components, such as transport boxes and structures for anti-tank guided missiles.

VR Group, a leader in simulation technology, is creating simulators for individual crew members. These will be digital twins of the CV90 vehicle with identical instrumentation to the real machines, enabling realistic training without endangering the equipment.

Ray Service will play a key role in the production of cable harnesses for the CV90 tracked IFVs, and Meopta, the Czech leader in optoelectronics, is participating in the production of the UTAAS fire control system in cooperation with the Swedish company Saab.

EVPÚ Defence, a specialist in electronic systems, supplies command sights, radar and laser warning systems, and weapon stations. Other partners include ZAKO Turčín, JihoTech, Chropyňská strojírna, Laser Centrum CZ, and others.

In addition to the CV90 project for the Czech Armed Forces, Czech companies are already involved in the production of components for international CV90 programs, including versions for Sweden, Ukraine, Denmark, and Slovakia, as well as for other BAE Systems platforms, such as the BvS10 tracked vehicle.

In addition to the production itself, the Ministry of Defense also expects the Czech defense industry to subsequently take over the post-warranty service of CV90 vehicles for our army.

Within a short period of time, the Czech Republic became an integral part of the European supply chain and gained access to export contracts, know-how, and long-term stability.