Lithuania has formally approved the procurement of 100 CV90 MkIV infantry fighting vehicles, committing to a multinational acquisition program alongside five NATO partners. Endorsed by the State Defence Council, the decision underscores Vilnius’ strategic move toward heavier tracked combat formations and strengthened Nordic–Baltic defense cooperation, with first deliveries planned from 2028.
The Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence confirmed that the purchase will be conducted within a six-nation framework involving Finland, Sweden, Norway, Estonia, and the Netherlands. Officials noted that the program is structured to go beyond platform acquisition, with a strong emphasis on sustainment, industrial resilience, and national participation. Lithuania is seeking to secure local production of selected components and establish domestic CV90 MkIV maintenance and lifecycle support capabilities as part of subsequent contractual phases, ahead of a main production agreement expected in early 2026.
Approval at the State Defence Council level reinforces Lithuania’s intent to adopt a modern, fifth-generation infantry fighting vehicle as the backbone of its future mechanized brigades. Decision-makers stressed that industrial involvement is a central pillar of the program, aimed at enhancing long-term operational independence and sustainment flexibility.
The Nordic CV90 MkIV acquisition initiative was launched politically in June through a Statement of Intent and solidified with a binding technical agreement signed in Helsinki in late November. The Helsinki agreement set out common technical requirements, collaboration principles, and a shared action plan leading toward the main production contract. Deliveries to Lithuania and other participating nations are scheduled to begin in 2028.
Lithuania’s selection of the CV90 MkIV reflects its focus on a platform offering high mobility, robust protection, and substantial digital growth potential, consistent with NATO’s evolving operational concepts. The MkIV incorporates an advanced electronic architecture capable of supporting future sensors, network-enabled command systems, and integration into NATO’s digital battlespace.
In terms of mobility, the CV90 MkIV is equipped with a new 1,000-horsepower engine and an upgraded X300 heavy-duty transmission, enabling strong performance despite an increase in gross vehicle weight to 38 tonnes. The added payload capacity provides flexibility for enhanced armor and mission-specific systems while retaining the agility required for Baltic operational environments.
