The Ministry of Defense of the Netherlands has taken a new step in the modernization plans of the Dutch Army by confirming the acquisition of new CV90 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), within the framework of the Nordic Initiative promoted by several NATO countries. This follows from a statement made days ago to Parliament by the State Secretary for Defence, Gijs Pepijn Tuinman, who expressed the ministry’s decision to strengthen the firepower and mobility of Dutch mechanized brigades, while ensuring interoperability with allies in a continental scenario marked by rising tensions through this new acquisition.
This new Dutch purchase is framed within the so-called Nordic Initiative. Launched in June 2025 during a NATO defence ministers’ meeting in Brussels, it brings together Sweden, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Lithuania and the Netherlands in a six-nation bloc that negotiates jointly with the manufacturer BAE Systems Hägglunds.
Under this scheme, the participating countries reduce acquisition costs while standardizing procedures and strengthening their ability to operate jointly in Europe. Sweden currently leads the contractual negotiations, while part of the production and upgrade work will be carried out in the Netherlands with the participation of more than 20 local companies.
The purchase of new CV90s complements the modernization program initiated in October 2022, when the Netherlands received its first upgraded vehicle during a ceremony held at Hägglunds’ facilities in Sweden. The vehicles, now designated CV9035, incorporate an active protection system (APS) against anti-tank missiles, an ATGM guided missile, a new electro-optical sighting system (EOPS), and electronic upgrades to withstand jamming and cybersecurity threats. The most distinctive feature is the installation of a new turret developed by BAE Systems Hägglunds.
In addition to the CV90s, the Dutch Ministry of Defence will incorporate unmanned systems to reinforce anti-tank capabilities and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) functions, increasing operational effectiveness and reducing risks to personnel. The new equipment will be assigned to the 13th Light Brigade, which will receive an additional mechanized infantry battalion based at the Nassau-Dietzkazerne in Budel, providing greater mobility and firepower in preparation for a potential large-scale conflict.
You may also like: The Royal Netherlands Navy will reinforce its NH90 NFH fleet with the purchase of 3 additional maritime combat helicopters
