Bradley IFV vs. CV90 AFV

Attribute	Bradley IFV	CV90 AFV
Country of Origin	United States	Sweden
Manufacturer	Bae Systems Land & Armaments	Bae Systems Hagglunds
Weight	27.6 tons	23 tons
Length	6.55 meters	6.55 meters
Width	3.6 meters	3.0 meters
Speed	66 km/h	70 km/h
Armament	25mm M242 Bushmaster cannon, TOW missile launcher	30mm Bushmaster II cannon, ATGM launcher

Introduction

When it comes to armored fighting vehicles (AFVs), the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) and the CV90 Armored Fighting Vehicle (AFV) are two of the most well-known and widely used options in military forces around the world. Both vehicles have their own unique attributes and capabilities that make them valuable assets on the battlefield. In this article, we will compare the key features of the Bradley IFV and the CV90 AFV to help understand their strengths and weaknesses.

Firepower

The Bradley IFV is equipped with a 25mm M242 Bushmaster chain gun and a TOW missile launcher, providing it with a potent combination of direct fire and anti-tank capabilities. The 25mm cannon is effective against light armored vehicles and infantry, while the TOW missile system can take out heavily armored targets at longer ranges. On the other hand, the CV90 AFV is armed with a 30mm Bushmaster II autocannon and a variety of secondary weapons, such as machine guns and anti-tank missiles. The 30mm cannon offers increased firepower compared to the Bradley's 25mm gun, making the CV90 better suited for engaging armored targets.

Mobility

Both the Bradley IFV and the CV90 AFV are tracked vehicles, providing them with excellent off-road mobility and the ability to traverse rough terrain. The Bradley has a top speed of around 40 mph on roads and 25 mph off-road, while the CV90 can reach speeds of up to 45 mph on roads and 30 mph off-road. The CV90 also has a more powerful engine, giving it better acceleration and hill-climbing capabilities compared to the Bradley. Overall, the CV90 has a slight edge in terms of mobility due to its higher speed and better engine performance.

Protection

The Bradley IFV is equipped with aluminum armor that provides protection against small arms fire and shell splinters. It also has a layer of spaced armor to improve its survivability against anti-tank weapons. The CV90, on the other hand, features a modular armor system that can be upgraded to provide protection against a wider range of threats, including RPGs and IEDs. The CV90's armor is also designed to provide better protection against mines and improvised explosive devices, making it a more survivable platform in urban and asymmetric warfare scenarios.

Sensor and Communication Systems

Both the Bradley IFV and the CV90 AFV are equipped with advanced sensor and communication systems to enhance situational awareness and coordination on the battlefield. The Bradley features a thermal sight for the gunner, a laser rangefinder, and a digital fire control system. It also has a secure radio system for communication with other vehicles and command units. The CV90, on the other hand, is equipped with a state-of-the-art battlefield management system that integrates sensors, cameras, and communication devices to provide real-time information to the crew. The CV90's system allows for better coordination between vehicles and units, improving overall battlefield effectiveness.

Operational Capabilities

Both the Bradley IFV and the CV90 AFV are designed to operate in a variety of combat environments, including urban, forest, and desert terrain. The Bradley's compact size and agility make it well-suited for urban warfare, where maneuverability and firepower are crucial. The CV90, on the other hand, has a larger profile and heavier armor, making it better suited for open terrain and long-range engagements. The CV90's superior protection and firepower give it an advantage in conventional warfare scenarios, while the Bradley's agility and versatility make it a valuable asset in asymmetric warfare and peacekeeping operations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bradley IFV and the CV90 AFV are both formidable armored fighting vehicles with unique attributes that make them valuable assets on the battlefield. The Bradley excels in urban warfare and close-quarters combat, thanks to its compact size and agility. On the other hand, the CV90 is better suited for open terrain and conventional warfare, with its superior firepower and protection. Ultimately, the choice between the Bradley IFV and the CV90 AFV will depend on the specific operational requirements and tactical objectives of the military force using them.