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News | 11-06-2024 | 11:02
The Ministry of Defense has purchased 120 mm mortar systems based on the CV90 vehicle. These systems come from the Swedish manufacturer BAE Hägglunds. The armed forces will once again have mobile ground fire support for a longer period of time. The first mortar systems will be delivered in 2028.
The new heavy mortars, along with other systems, are an important component of the layered ground fire support system. They are designed to support armored infantry units. Mortars must be able to engage both enemy (light) armored units and dismounted infantry. Thus, they contribute to the current and future combat deployment capabilities of armored infantry.
Currently, the army’s mechanized forces still use single 81mm mortars. However, these are mainly effective at short ranges. The 120mm mortar has a longer range (7-12 km vs. 6 km) and a higher rate of fire. Systems are becoming faster, partly due to the support of modern C4I resources (Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence). The aim is also to improve accuracy by adding GPS-controlled ammunition.
Better protection
The current 81mm mortars are transported in small Fennek scout vehicles and have to be mounted next to the vehicle. The new 120mm mortar is mounted on the sturdier and larger CV90 chassis. Soldiers are better protected thanks to the stronger armor. They also no longer have to leave the vehicle to operate the weapon. In addition, there is more room on board for personnel, ammunition and equipment.
Between now and 2026, most of the CV90s the Army has will receive what are called mid-life upgrades (MLUs). About 15 CV90s in the logistics reserve that were not equipped with MLUs are now being fitted with new turrets that contain twin-barrel mortar systems. The landing gear for these mortar vehicles will still be brought up to MLU standards in the same program. This should be completed by 2028. Ammunition is acquired through a separate program.
The Netherlands is not the only NATO country that will use the CV90 120mm system. Recent NATO member Sweden also uses it.
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