Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration has awarded Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace a contract to deliver its Protector RS4 remote weapon stations for the Swedish Army’s CV90 combat vehicle fleet. The agreement, valued at more than 400 million krona ($42.7 million), marks a major step in transitioning Sweden’s mechanized units from the older Protector Nordic (VS01) configuration to a significantly upgraded capability.
Under the contract, the RS4 station will be integrated onto three CV90 variants, designated as Vapenstation VS02, with additional options available for other army platforms. The RS4 enhances lethality and survivability by offering extended engagement ranges, advanced sensor integration, and the ability for operators to fire weapons while remaining safely under armor. The CV90, developed by BAE Systems Hägglunds, is the backbone of Sweden’s mechanized force and is fielded in infantry, reconnaissance, and command versions. Recent orders for CV9035s and the donation of older CV9040s to Ukraine have accelerated Sweden’s need to replenish and modernize its fleet.
The RS4 platform weighs between 135 and 190 kilograms, depending on configuration, and stands 505 to 765 millimeters tall without weapons. Its suite of cameras and sensors enables effective day-and-night operations, while its 360-degree rotational capability—at speeds of up to 90 degrees per second—supports rapid target engagement. The elevation range extends from -20 to 60 degrees, with quick-response motion of 70 degrees per second for precise fire-on-the-move performance.
Kongsberg’s system supports a wide range of weapons, including the 12.7mm Browning M2 and WKM-B, 5.56mm M249, and multiple 7.62mm machine guns such as the M240, UKM-2000C, and M134 Gatling. It can also integrate 40mm grenade launchers like the MK19, MK47, and H&K GMG with airburst capability, as well as non-lethal effectors. Additional options include coaxial kits and provisions for anti-tank guided missiles, making the RS4 one of the most adaptable remote weapon stations in service.
