Sweden strengthens defense with $1.97 billion Leopard tank deal and CV90 upgrades
In a landmark move to bolster national defense, Sweden has announced a $1.97 billion deal to acquire 44 new Leopard 2A8 battle tanks and upgrade its existing fleet of 66 Leopard 2 tanks. The agreement, described as one of the largest Swedish arms deals since the Cold War, also includes significant investments in modernizing CV90 infantry fighting vehicles.
A Historic Defense Investment
The Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) brokered the deal with the German-French defense contractor KNDS. The procurement aligns with Sweden's ongoing effort to increase its army from two to four brigades. "We are getting 154 modern tanks and refurbished combat vehicles with these orders, which strengthens our defense capability," stated Defense Minister Pål Jonson in an official press release.
The deal ensures Sweden’s tank force remains robust following the donation of 10 Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. These tanks, currently operated by Ukrainian crews trained in Sweden, demonstrate Stockholm's commitment to supporting Ukraine while maintaining its own military readiness.
Modernizing Sweden’s Tank Fleet
The newly acquired Leopard 2A8 tanks, designated as Stridsvagn 123, will begin delivery in 2028, with all units expected to be operational by 2031. Meanwhile, the refurbishment of existing Leopard 2 tanks will bring them up to the same advanced standard. Key upgrades include:
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New cannons for enhanced firepower.
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Improved crew protection measures.
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Advanced digital systems.
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Extended service life.
These enhancements will ensure Sweden's armored forces are not only modernized but also interoperable with NATO allies, such as Germany and Norway, who operate the same tank systems. This interoperability provides logistical advantages, particularly in terms of ammunition and spare parts procurement.
CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicle Upgrades
In addition to the tank modernization, Sweden will refurbish 90 CV90 infantry fighting vehicles at an estimated cost of $448 million. The upgrades are expected to be completed by 2030 and will address the evolving security needs of the nation. These enhancements include improved combat systems and extended operational capabilities.
Responding to Security Challenges
This ambitious rearmament initiative is part of Sweden’s largest defense upgrade since the 1950s. The deteriorating security landscape in Europe, exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine, has underscored the urgency of such investments. "This investment in tanks and combat vehicles is a pivotal part of the largest rearmament effort by the Swedish defense since the 1950s," Minister Jonson emphasized.
As Sweden prepares to join NATO, these defense upgrades signal a commitment to both national security and alliance interoperability. The modernized armored fleet will enhance Sweden’s readiness to address future challenges while contributing to regional stability.
