The Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Ukraine have entered into a joint declaration aimed at the procurement and maintenance of CV90 infantry fighting vehicles. This agreement allows for information sharing among the three countries regarding the procurement processes of the CV90, as well as collaboration in production, operation, training, and servicing of the vehicles.

Czech Minister of Defense Jana Cernochova emphasized the unity and strength of the West, stating that Ukraine is considered a full-fledged partner. The signing of the Declaration on Cooperation in the Acquisition and Operation of Infantry Tracked Combat Vehicles signifies the countries’ commitment to collective defense provision and their recognition of Ukraine as an integral part of the alliance.

The declaration was signed during a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Brussels. Details of the agreement will be shared at a later stage, according to Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov.

This development follows the recent announcement by the Czech Republic of their own procurement of 246 CV90 infantry fighting vehicles for $2.2 billion. Slovakia has also signed an intergovernmental contract with Sweden for the purchase of 152 CV90s, totaling $1.37 billion. Furthermore, Sweden has been providing training to Ukrainian soldiers on the operation of the CV90 and has pledged to deliver 50 of these vehicles to Ukraine.

The CV90, developed by BAE Systems, is a tracked vehicle equipped with a powerful 40-mm automatic cannon capable of engaging targets, including helicopters, from a distance of up to four kilometers (3.1 miles). The deployment of these vehicles is expected to enhance the defense capabilities of the recipient countries and contribute to their security in the face of potential threats.

The joint declaration between the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Ukraine represents a significant step towards strengthening defense cooperation in the region and underscores the commitment of these countries to collective security and defense preparedness.

Article by Prague Forum