Signal
The Norwegian Army has integrated the CV90 infantry fighting vehicle with advanced sensor and fire systems to enable autonomous cavalry operations. The platform now fields the Observation Targeting and Surveillance Systems (OTAS), a mast-mounted sensor suite with radar, EO/IR, and NATO-standard geolocation. OTAS is paired with tethered and untethered drone swarms, launched and controlled directly from the vehicle. Sensor fusion occurs via the Digital Aided Fire Solution (DAFS), automating targeting and strike coordination. Trials during Arctic Strike 2024 and Nordic Response validated improved situational awareness, reduced latency, and higher precision in target engagement.
Why it matters
The CV90 has shifted from armoured transport to decentralised command node. Integrated sensing, autonomy, and fire control enable cavalry teams to operate as dispersed but connected ISR-fire units. This alters the tactical geometry of reconnaissance: faster tempo, reduced exposure, and minimal reliance on external C2 infrastructure. Tethered drones improve endurance and EW resilience but constrain mobility. Operational doctrine must now balance physical limits against digital reach. In contested EW environments, automation boosts tempo but raises dependency risks. Human oversight remains vital.
Strategic takeaway
Norway is prototyping a doctrinal shift: cavalry not as scouts, but as fast, autonomous sensor-fire relays. Recce is no longer just about seeing first, it’s about firing accurately, independently, and under jamming.
Investor Implications
BAE Systems (LSE: BA.), the CV90’s prime contractor, is positioned to expand sensor and autonomy retrofits across NATO fleets. Subsystem suppliers like Kongsberg Gruppen (OSE: KOG), Saab (STO: SAAB B), and Leonardo (BIT: LDO) stand to benefit from demand in sensors, drones, and fire-control integration. Defence software firms including Palantir (NYSE: PLTR) and AI contractors like Anduril may capture contracts for fusion engines like DAFS. Investors should monitor NATO procurement cycles as the CV90’s new role sets a precedent for armoured vehicle modernisation across Europe.
Watchpoints
September 30 – October 4, 2025 → AUSA Annual Meeting, Washington D.C.: Potential demonstrations or updates on NATO CV90 configurations.
October 14–17, 2025 → NATO Exercise Trident Juncture, Norway: Observe how CV90 integration performs in multinational joint ops.
Q4 2025 → Norwegian MoD FLCS update: Next phase decisions on autonomous system procurement and CV90 retrofits.
Tactical Lexicon: Sensor-Fire Loop
A closed network linking sensors, processors, and shooters for real-time engagement.
Why it matters:
• Reduces time between detection and strike, increasing battlefield tempo.
• Enables dispersed, decentralised units to act autonomously within a shared battlespace.
• Vulnerable to EW or cyber disruption requires robust fallback controls.
Source: wavellroom.com
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