Slovakia Weighs Tank Options: From Poland’s Upgraded K2PL to Sweden’s Lightweight CV90120

Slovakia is evaluating multiple options to modernize its tank fleet, including Poland’s domestically upgraded version of the South Korean K2 main battle tank and Sweden’s lighter CV90120.

Polish Deputy Prime Minister and National Defence Minister Władysław Marcin Kosiniak-Kamysz said Bratislava was interested in acquiring the K2PL variant, according to Defence24.

The topic was discussed with Slovak officials during the recent NATO summit in The Hague.

Poland is preparing its defense industry to begin licensed production of K2PL, an enhanced version of K2 featuring upgraded protection and modern systems. Existing K2 tanks already delivered to Poland will be retrofitted to the K2PL standard.

K2PL will include reinforced armor on the turret and hull, enhanced mine protection, dynamic protection systems, and drone countermeasures. Production in Poland is expected to begin in 2028.

Lightweight alternative: CV90120

Slovakia is also considering Swedish CV90120, a light tank developed by BAE Systems Hägglunds, according to FutureArmy. The vehicle could complement CV9035 MkIV infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) already ordered by the Slovak Armed Forces. Local industry may be involved in production.

Weighing under 38 tons compared to 55 tons for K2 the CV90120 offers greater mobility in mountainous or infrastructure-limited environments. Despite its lighter frame, it retains the firepower of a main battle tank.

“The goal is to provide fire support to infantry wherever they are. CV90120 has the same firepower as a main battle tank, but can go where heavier tanks cannot,” said Tarkan Turkcan, CV90 Platform Director at BAE Systems Hägglunds.

The vehicle is equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore gun and features an active protection system. A drone-intercepting remote weapon station is also included.

No final decision has been made. However, FutureArmy editor-in-chief Martin Martiš suggested CV90120 could have an edge, given Slovakia’s existing industrial base tied to the CV90 platform.

“We expect that the Slovak supply chain formed under the CV9035 project will be extended to CV90120. Around 30 Slovak companies are already involved,” Martiš said.

Last year, local defense firm Koval Systems opened a turret production facility in Beluša for the CV90 MkIV IFV. The plant could potentially support turret production for CV90120 as well.