Understanding the CV90: The 120mm Artillery Variant

The Combat Vehicle 90 (CV90) series is a family of tracked combat vehicles designed by BAE Systems Hägglunds. Originating from Sweden, these vehicles serve various roles, from infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to specialized versions like command and control, anti-aircraft, recovery, and artillery.

The Concept of the CV90 120mm

The CV90 platform is known for its versatility, and among its many configurations stands the CV90-120. This variant features a 120mm smoothbore cannon. It represents an intersection of an IFV’s mobility and a tank’s firepower. The idea was to provide a heavier punch while maintaining speed and adaptability on the battlefield.

This version serves a niche role. It aims to bridge the gap between traditional IFVs and main battle tanks (MBTs). The CV90-120 is capable of engaging armored threats with a robust, mobile artillery platform.

Development and Design

Development of the CV90 platform began in the 1980s for the Swedish Army. Over the years, the core design evolved to meet changing military needs. The addition of the 120mm variant emerged from the tactical need for a support vehicle that can deliver high-caliber firepower.

The CV90-120 is equipped with a turret featuring a 120mm tank gun. The gun supports various ammunition types, providing the vehicle with flexibility in combat situations. The turret is automated, enhancing operation efficiency and reducing crew workload.

The chassis of the CV90 series was engineered for adaptability. It includes numerous upgrades in armor protection, underscoring the design’s commitment to crew safety without forsaking speed.

Technical Specifications

• Engine: The CV90 series is powered by a Scania diesel engine, offering about 810 horsepower, essential for maneuverability in diverse terrains.
• Speed: This series can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h on roads, with an operational range of approximately 320 km – granting considerable battlefield reach.
• Weight: With the added weight of the 120mm turret, the CV90-120 comes in heavier than its IFV counterparts, averaging around 35 tons.
• Armor: The vehicle’s armor system combines steel and composite materials, designed to counteract small arms fire and shell splinters with added protection options against heavier threats.

Operational Capabilities

The CV90-120 supports modern battlefield operations, with its primary weapon capable of delivering substantial firepower across significant distances. It can cover lacking areas in standard mechanized units, facilitating the engagement of fortified positions, enemy armor, and other strategic targets.

The tactical mobility afforded by the platform enables rapid repositioning. The vehicle’s speed and maneuverability mean it can support advancing forces effectively, or retreat tactically if conditions demand. This adaptability to dynamic combat scenarios is crucial for maintaining battlefield supremacy.

Field Adaptations and Variants

The CV90 family includes several other variants, each tailored for specific battlefield services. Among these are engineer vehicles, reconnaissance configurations, and air defense models. Each variant shares the core design principles of mobility, protection, and versatile firepower.

The CV90-120 itself was an experimental offshoot, exploring the feasibility of integrating tank-class weaponry on an IFV chassis. While not widely adopted, it showcases the expanding possibilities for future combat vehicles.

Export and Adoption

The significance of the CV90 lies not only in its domestic use but also in its international appeal. Several countries have adopted or considered this series for their armed forces. Nations like Norway, Finland, and the Netherlands have integrated the CV90 in various roles, leveraging its flexibility.

Though the specific 120mm version sees less widespread use, it stands as a testament to the innovative possibilities that military adaptations can achieve. Its qualities appeal to nations seeking enhanced firepower without transitioning to full-scale tanks, a tactical balance valued in various military doctrines.

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