The Netherlands is expanding its armored capabilities with plans to acquire additional CV90 infantry fighting vehicles through a joint European procurement effort involving five partner nations. The initiative seeks to streamline acquisition costs, enhance logistical commonality, and strengthen interoperability among participating armed forces. The new CV90s will be assigned to a fresh armored infantry battalion within the Royal Netherlands Army’s 13th Light Brigade, further strengthening the unit’s mechanized combat power. The move follows a multinational agreement signed in November covering cooperative development, maintenance, and long-term support of the CV90 platform, with the main contract expected in early 2026. Parallel to the new procurement, the Netherlands is modernizing its existing CV90 fleet through a comprehensive mid-life upgrade program led by BAE Systems Hägglunds. Enhancements include improved turret design, better man-machine integration, faster target engagement, and the addition of active protection systems, ensuring the CV90 remains effective against evolving battlefield threats well into the next decade.
