Narrative
In Ukrainian service, the CV90 appears primarily as a mechanized infantry fighting vehicle: it moves troops under armor, provides 40 mm cannon fire, and protects crews and dismounts on contested front lines. The August 2023 Swedish-Ukrainian statement framed the platform around mobility, firepower, reliability, and crew protection, and linked the donation to continued cooperation on production, operation, training, and servicing.
Janes' September 2023 reporting emphasized combat performance rather than only transfer status. It described the 40 mm gun as effective in Ukraine, noted the vehicle's sensor and night-fighting value, and reported that mobility and protection had mattered despite battle damage to several vehicles.
Later Ukrainian and defense reporting described broader field adaptation. Defense Express reported that Ukrainian forces used CV90s to deliver troops, evacuate wounded personnel, and, when needed, provide indirect fire as an improvised howitzer. ArmyInform, citing a 21st Separate Mechanized Brigade video, said the brigade had used Swedish CV90s for more than two and a half years and credited the vehicles with surviving shelling and saving Ukrainian soldiers in critical situations.
Sources: Joint statement of Intent between the Prime Minister of Sweden and the President of Ukraine, DSEI 2023: CV90 IFVs see combat in Ukraine, Ukraine Turns CV90 Into Improvised Howitzer in Search of Unconventional Solutions, Made in Sweden, Tested in Ukraine
