The first CV90 combat vehicle hulls have arrived at the Šenov plant from Sweden. This marks the full launch of the vehicle assembly process in the Czech Republic and symbolically completes the transfer of key technologies from BAE Systems Hägglunds. The project is thus entering its next production phase, which is of crucial importance for the Czech defense industry.

Each vehicle consists of more than 3,000 components, and its assembly takes several months. The state-owned enterprise plans to complete more than 200 vehicles; at full production capacity, output is expected to reach approximately ten vehicles per month. The finished vehicles will then undergo rigorous testing at the state-owned enterprise’s test range. Each vehicle must complete dozens of kilometers of road tests and undergo a thorough inspection of all systems – from electronics to weapon systems to communications equipment. Only after successfully passing all tests can the vehicle be delivered to the Czech Army. The assembly of the first thirteen vehicles is being carried out directly at the BAE Systems Hägglunds plant in Sweden.

As part of the project, two new, state-of-the-art production lines were built in Šenov, identical to those used in Sweden. The company has also invested more than 80 million crowns in modernizing its infrastructure and is gradually expanding its technological and personnel capacities. At the same time, VOP CZ has begun preparations to provide long-term service and comprehensive support for the vehicles throughout their life cycle, including maintenance, repairs, and future upgrades. Other companies in the Czech defense industry are also involved in the entire production program, supplying components and technologies.

“This is a pivotal moment for the Czech defense industry. It’s not just about manufacturing modern military equipment, but also about acquiring know-how that will remain in the Czech Republic well into the future. This is essential for our self-sufficiency and our ability to respond to new security challenges,” said Vlastimil Navrátil, director of VOP CZ, who added for CZ DEFENCE: “For us, the CV90 represents a significant leap forward that propels the entire company forward. At the same time, I’m glad that the visible, hands-on work on this project has finally begun. The CV90 project is an absolute priority for the state-owned enterprise VOP CZ, and we’re pleased to be able to participate in this largest rearmament project.”

“The start of CV90 vehicle assembly right here in the Czech Republic represents a significant milestone for the entire program and confirms the successful transfer of technology and know-how between BAE Systems Hägglunds and the Czech defense industry. As a result, VOP CZ is becoming part of the modern European production and service base for the CV90 platform. 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,” said Henrik Gyllencreutz, a representative of BAE Systems Hägglunds.

VOP CZ as a Key Player

The Military Repair Enterprise (VOP CZ) has a long history of repairing, modernizing, and manufacturing military equipment. In the past, the company was primarily involved in the maintenance of Soviet-era armored vehicles, but in recent years it has undergone a significant transformation. It is increasingly focusing on modern tracked and wheeled platforms and has recently achieved significant successes, including in cooperation with Western partners.

The CV90 tracked infantry fighting vehicle project thus represents a major milestone for VOP CZ. It involves not only the delivery of vehicles but also participation in the production of a modern combat vehicle that ranks among the most widely used tracked platforms in Europe. VOP CZ is also expected to play a key role in the maintenance of the vehicles throughout their entire life cycle, which ensures long-term stability and strategic importance for the company.

Production of Czech CV90s in the Czech Republic

Production lines at the state-owned enterprise are expected to begin operations during the first half of this year. Two separate lines will gradually be established: one for combat versions of the vehicles and the other for special variants, in the development of which VOP CZ also participated.

The entire production process will be structured similarly to that in the automotive industry. At the start of production, there will be thousands of individual parts, and at the end, a finished vehicle. In Šenov, the vehicles will not only be assembled but also given their final coat of paint and tested before being handed over to the customer, BAE Systems Hägglunds, which will then deliver them to the end customer – the Czech Army.

It is also important to note that some of the Czech CV90 vehicles are already being manufactured at BAE Systems Hägglunds’ plant in Sweden. Czech production will thus seamlessly follow on from overseas production and gradually take over a significant portion of the production capacity. The highest production rate is expected particularly between 2027 and 2029.

Collaboration with BAE Systems

BAE Systems is one of the world’s largest defense contractors and has extensive experience in the development and production of military equipment. Its Swedish division, Hägglunds, is behind the CV90 platform, which has become the standard in many European armies.

Collaboration with such a strong partner is crucial for VOP CZ not only in terms of the current project but also for future development. A key benefit is “technology transfer” – that is, the direct transfer of know-how to the Czech Republic.

As a result, VOP CZ will not remain merely an assembly plant, but will gain expertise that it can also apply to other projects, including CV90 programs outside the Czech Republic. The company is already partially engaged in these activities; for example, it manufactures welded cabins for CV90 training simulators for BAE Systems, which will also be used outside the Czech program.

Economic and Strategic Benefits

Participation in the CV90 program provides the state-owned enterprise with a stable workload for many years to come. Moreover, thanks to this program, the company has entered a new era by becoming involved in the production of Western ground-based tracked platforms.

The strategic significance of the project also lies in strengthening the Czech Republic’s self-sufficiency. The ability to perform repairs, modernizations, and maintenance of equipment directly on home soil under state control is crucial, especially in crisis situations. VOP CZ is thus significantly strengthening its role in ensuring the operational readiness of the Czech Army.

Infrastructure Investments

In connection with the CV90 project, the state-owned enterprise invested tens of millions of crowns in modernizing its facilities. In addition to the construction of a new garage specifically designed for CV90 vehicles, the testing range and production facilities – where the final assembly of the vehicles will take place – were also modernized.

However, the investments do not end there. The company is already preparing additional projects aimed at expanding its service capabilities and technical infrastructure. These steps are intended to ensure that the company will be able to cover not only production but also the entire life cycle of the vehicles.

New Job Opportunities

The CV90 project brings VOP CZ not only new opportunities but also challenges, particularly in the area of human resources. The company plans to gradually expand its capacity, especially in highly specialized professions, such as Integrated Logistics Support specialists. These specialists not only conduct various analyses of potential future failures of different vehicle components but also translate and create manuals specifically for these vehicles.

Future vehicle servicing and long-term maintenance also hold great potential for job opportunities. In this regard, VOP CZ is focusing on collaboration with local universities and vocational schools.

Another interesting initiative is the “New Mission” program, which aims to reach out to former members of the Czech Armed Forces. At VOP CZ, they can find employment in an environment they know well, while continuing to apply their experience in the field of military technology.