Estonia plans to upgrade its existing CV90s (pictured) rather than buy CV90 MkIV new builds. (EDF)
The Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) confirmed to Janes on 14 April 2026 that Estonia has cancelled plans to procure the CV90 MkIV infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). Estonian Public Broadcasting (Eesti Rahvusringhääling: ERR) reported on 9 April that Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur had told it that Tallinn had cancelled the EUR500 million (nearly USD590 million) combat vehicle procurement programme in favour of air defence and unmanned systems.
An ECDI spokesperson told Janes, “Estonia has decided to cancel the replacement of CV90 infantry fighting vehicles with new platforms. Approximately EUR100 million will be allocated to the modernisation of the CV90. Planning for the use of the remaining allocated funds is currently ongoing. The proposal for their use will be submitted by the [Estonian] Defence Forces [EDF] as military advice from [EDF] commander [Lieutenant General Andrus Merilo].”
Estonia was one of six countries to sign a technical agreement in November 2025 on the procurement being conducted through the Swedish-led CV90 MkIV Nordic initiative. The other signatories were Finland, Norway, Lithuania, and the Netherlands. The technical agreement defines the programme-specific principles of co-operation, technical requirements, and an agreed action plan until the signing of the main contract, which is planned for mid-2026. CV90 deliveries to participants are planned for 2028.
Asked by Janes if Estonia's existing CV90s would be upgraded, the ECDI spokesperson responded, “Estonia has decided that, at present, it is more rational to modernise the existing infantry fighting vehicles rather than replace them. Modernisation will ensure the sustained preservation of capability and the efficient use of resources.
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