The Dutch Ministry of Defence has announced plans to procure additional CV90 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) as part of a broader effort to strengthen the Royal Netherlands Army’s mechanized capabilities. The acquisition will be conducted through a joint European procurement program involving Estonia, Finland, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden, a move designed to lower costs while improving operational interoperability among participating nations.
The newly acquired vehicles will equip an additional armored infantry battalion within the 13th Light Brigade of the Royal Netherlands Army, which will be stationed at the Nassau-Dietz Barracks in Budel. While specific numbers and contract values have not yet been disclosed, the main contract under the multinational framework is expected to be finalized in early 2026.
The announcement follows a multinational agreement signed in November covering the joint development, operation, and long-term maintenance of the CV90 platform. More than 20 Dutch companies are expected to participate as subcontractors, contributing to both the new acquisition and the ongoing modernization of the Netherlands’ existing CV90 fleet.
Currently, 122 CV90 IFVs operated by the Royal Netherlands Army are undergoing mid-life upgrades under a program valued at approximately $500 million. Led by BAE Systems Hägglunds, the modernization includes improved turret design, enhanced man-machine interaction, and integration of an active protection system against anti-tank missiles. Once completed by 2026, the upgrades will significantly improve survivability, reaction times, and battlefield effectiveness.
