Slovakia is undertaking one of its largest military modernization projects to date with the acquisition of CV9035 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs). According to Army Recognition, the Slovak Army will receive the vehicles through production led by BAE Systems’ main partner ZTS-ŠPECIÁL, in close cooperation with other Slovak defense companies. Local state institutions and private firms will also play vital roles in long-term support and maintenance of the program.

The Slovak Army will receive the latest version of the CV90 family, known as the CV90 MkIV. These vehicles will be fitted with new D-series turrets armed with 35mm cannons, and equipped with Israel’s Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS) as well as SPIKE LR anti-tank guided missiles. Out of the 152 vehicles, 122 will be in the standard IFV configuration, 12 will serve as armored personnel carriers, while the remaining vehicles will be delivered in command and control, reconnaissance, and recovery variants.

The contract also includes training systems and tactical simulators to ensure effective integration of the new platforms. Slovak Defense Minister Jaroslav Naď expressed enthusiasm for the program, noting that it fulfills Slovakia’s commitment to building a heavy mechanized brigade and will strengthen cooperation with NATO allies already operating Swedish CV90s. Deputy Defense Minister Marian Majer emphasized that the CV90 meets the requirements of the Slovak Armed Forces and praised the rapid pace of military modernization in recent years.

With this deal, Slovakia becomes the eighth operator of the CV90 IFV family, joining Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the Netherlands—four of which are NATO members. The growing adoption of the CV90 underscores its reputation as one of the most capable armored fighting vehicles in service today.