The CV9035 MkIV infantry fighting vehicles being manufactured in Sweden for the Slovak Armed Forces have successfully completed mobility trials, marking another important milestone in the testing process. Firing trials will follow. TASR was informed of this on Wednesday by Tomáš Gelinger of AMI Communications Slovakia.

The vehicles are manufactured by international defence company BAE Systems Hägglunds in cooperation with dozens of Slovak companies. Slovakia expects to receive 152 vehicles in various variants, with the first units potentially being delivered to the armed forces as early as this year. They will be assigned primarily to the 1st Mechanised Brigade.

“The programme is progressing well, and the successful completion of the trials is the result of the joint efforts of all partners involved. We are pleased to be steadily fulfilling our commitment to deliver vehicles to the Slovak Armed Forces that will meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s battlefield,” said Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, President and CEO of BAE Systems Hägglunds.

The company tested the vehicles’ ability to navigate difficult terrain and overcome various obstacles, including trenches. The trials also included driving at maximum speed and climbing steep slopes, as well as safely stopping and restarting on steep inclines.

According to the statement, the vehicles met all specified requirements during the trials and significantly exceeded expectations in many areas. Representatives of the Slovak Armed Forces also took part in the trials. The Slovak crew had the opportunity to experience operating the vehicle firsthand, both on the test track and at the airfield where the speed tests were conducted.

“The CV9035 MkIV offers an exceptional combination of mobility, firepower and crew protection. The ability to move quickly, navigate difficult terrain and change positions can determine not only the success of a combat operation but also the safety of soldiers,” said Gustafsson-Rask.

The next stage of testing will be firing trials, which are scheduled to take place in the near future.

The CV9035 MkIV represents the latest generation of the proven CV90 platform. The Slovak configuration is equipped with a 35 mm cannon, modern digital architecture and advanced protection systems. Compared with previous generations, it offers a more powerful engine, improved mobility, enhanced protection and an open architecture that allows for the integration of new technologies.

Zdroj: TASR / BAE Systems Hägglunds