The delivery marks the full launch of domestic assembly and the completion of the transfer of key production technologies. It also moves the Czech Republic’s CV90 acquisition into its next production phase.
VOP CZ plans to complete more than 200 vehicles at Šenov. Output is expected to reach around 10 vehicles per month once production is fully established.
The first 13 vehicles are being assembled directly at BAE Systems Hägglunds’ plant in Sweden. Most of the remaining vehicles will be produced on two new assembly lines in the Czech Republic.
The lines are identical to those used at the Swedish manufacturer’s facility. VOP CZ has invested more than CZK80 million in infrastructure modernisation and is expanding its technical and workforce capacity.
Each CV90 comprises more than 3,000 components and requires several months to assemble. Completed vehicles will undergo extensive testing at VOP CZ’s proving ground before delivery to the Czech Armed Forces.
Each vehicle must complete dozens of kilometres of road testing and pass detailed inspections of its systems. The checks will cover electronics, weapons, communications equipment and other onboard technologies.
The Czech Republic ordered 246 CV90 MkIV-family vehicles, including 29 technical support variants. The CZK59.7 billion gross contract also covers training, spare parts and additional services.
Combat variants will be equipped with Northrop Grumman Mk44S Bushmaster II 30mm cannons. Other Czech defence companies are participating in the programme by supplying components and technologies.
VOP CZ has also begun preparing to provide maintenance, repairs and future upgrades throughout the vehicles’ service lives. The work is intended to establish a domestic production and support base extending beyond initial assembly.
“This is a pivotal moment for the Czech defence industry. It is not just about the production of modern military equipment, but also about acquiring know-how that will remain in the Czech Republic for the future,” said Vlastimil Navrátil, Director of VOP CZ.
“This is essential for our self-sufficiency and our ability to respond to new security challenges,” Navrátil said. The programme gives VOP CZ a long-term role in both vehicle manufacturing and through-life support.
“The start of CV90 vehicle assembly directly in the Czech Republic represents a significant milestone for the entire programme and confirms the successful transfer of technology and know-how between BAE Systems Hägglunds and the Czech defence industry. As a result, VOP CZ is becoming part of the modern European production and service base for the CV90 platform,” said Henrik Gyllencreutz, a representative of BAE Systems Hägglunds.
“We are proud that Czech companies and experts will play a key role not only in the production of vehicles for the Czech Army, but we also believe they will play a key role in their long-term support, maintenance and further development,” Gyllencreutz said. The programme links local assembly with future servicing and capability upgrades.
