BAE Systems takes aim at Czech Army requirement with CV90Shaun Connors, London - Jane's International Defence Review
13 June 2017
http://www.janes.com/article/71375/bae-systems-takes-aim-at-czech-army-requirement-with-cv90 BAE Systems Hägglunds displayed two examples of the CV90 (Combat Vehicle 90) infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) - with one of these being an unmanned turret-equipped model shown for the first time in public - at IDET 2017 in Brno, Czech Republic.
The company has integrated Kongsberg's MCT-30, with this being the first unmanned turret to be fitted by BAE Systems Hägglunds to a CV90 hull. To accommodate the internal crew and stowage arrangements dictated by an unmanned turret option, the base CV90 all-welded steel hull is raised slightly, with periscopes fitted to provide enhanced situational awareness for the gunner and commander. It is understood that other unmanned turrets can be integrated if required.
Although detailed technical requirements are yet to be released, BAE Systems Hägglunds clearly is taking aim at the Czech Army's BMP-2 IFV replacement programme. The company in May 2016 announced a teaming agreement with VOP CZ of the Czech Republic to offer CV90s to meet the service's requirement in an expected 2020-25 timeframe.
< Edited >
Both turret types were armed with an Orbital ATK Armament Systems 30 mm Mk 44 cannon and 7.62 mm co-axial machine gun. This main gun option has been selected by about 30% of all CV90 users to date, and the calibre is understood to be another expressed preference of the Czech Army. The version shown with the manned turret fitted is similar to the Norwegian Army's current specification.
< Edited >