Denmark strengthens military with 115 new high-tech IFVs

Denmark has ordered 115 CV9035 MkIIIC infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), which will significantly boost the Danish armed forces. We present the performance of the latest version of the CV90 IFV, which is also highly praised in Ukraine.

Denmark signed a contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds to purchase 115 CV9035 MkIIIC IFVs, indicating that none of the competitors were able to meet the Danish MoD's requirements. This is an extension of the contract from March 2024 to upgrade the currently owned machines to the new standard.

This is a very good choice because the family of Strf. 90 / CV90 IFVs designed by the Swedes is very popular among NATO countries and is very well regarded by Ukrainians who have Strf 9040C versions. Meanwhile, the new variants will offer significantly better capabilities and will be equipped with an active defence system, which is crucial on today's battlefield.

It can be assumed that the latest variant of the CV9035 MKIIIC will receive a turret similar to the MkIV version ordered by the Czech Republic and Slovakia. In the case of the CV90 IFV, the last two digits in the name denote the calibre of the automatic cannon. For example, Finnish models with a 30 mm cannon are CV9030, Swedish ones with a 40 mm cannon are CV9040, and Danish or Dutch ones with a 35 mm cannon are designated CV9035.

The latter are equipped with a dual-feed Bushmaster III automatic cannon, which fires 200 rounds per minute using 35x228 mm ammunition. They are the most versatile model on the market between the NATO-common 30 mm cannons and the more powerful but magazine-fed 40 mm cannons.

The advantage of using a larger 35 mm calibre compared to 30 mm is greater sub-calibre ammunition penetration, higher effective range, and increased effectiveness of programmable ammunition because each round can accommodate a larger load of tungsten balls and explosive material.

For example, a tungsten penetrator used in 35 mm APFSDS-T ammunition can penetrate over 10 cm of armour steel from a distance of 1 km, allowing it to take out Soviet BMP-2/3s even from over 3 km away or more. In close-combat engagements, even tanks may be threatened by a side hit. It is also possible to engage targets like drones with fragmentation or programmable ammunition at a distance of 1 km or greater.

The maximum range against targets such as soldiers in a trench exceeds 4 km. The only downside of this calibre is a slightly higher weight and poorer compatibility with allies due to its lower popularity compared to the 30 mm calibre.

The CV9035 is a heavy-tracked vehicle weighing up to 38 metric tonnes with additional armour packages. It provides very high protection for a three-person crew and up to eight dismounted soldiers. With ceramic modules, even the sides can withstand fire from 30 mm cannons at greater distances, and the front can handle even more.

Additionally, the armour can withstand hits from RPG-7 grenades like the PG-7VL, and the latest versions feature an active defence system that shoots down incoming anti-tank missiles at a safe distance from the armour. Such systems are very effective, as demonstrated by the Israeli Trophy system during the Gaza Strip conflict.

All of this, combined with very satisfactory mobility thanks in part to a 1,000 hp engine capable of propelling the CV90 to 70 km/h, makes it one of the best IFVs in the world today.