Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has secured a major contract from Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration to supply its advanced Protector RS4 remote weapon station for the Swedish Army’s CV90 fleet. The deal, worth over 400 million krona ($42.7 million), will replace the existing Protector Nordic (VS01) systems with the updated VS02 configuration across multiple CV90 variants, with options for further vehicle integration.
The upgrade comes as Sweden continues to modernize its combat vehicle inventory. The tracked CV90—produced by BAE Systems Hägglunds—serves as the foundation of the army’s infantry fighting vehicle fleet and is fielded in infantry, reconnaissance, and command versions. Sweden’s recent procurement of new CV9035s and its donation of older CV9040s to Ukraine have accelerated fleet upgrade requirements. The RS4’s arrival adds improved sensors, expanded engagement envelopes, and enhanced protection by allowing operators to engage threats without exposing themselves.
Weighing between 135 and 190 kilograms, the RS4 combines compact design with robust performance. The turret features high-resolution camera and sensor systems for full day and night operations and provides 360-degree rotation at up to 90 degrees per second. Its elevation capability spans from –20 to 60 degrees, enabling accurate fire support even in challenging terrain. These characteristics ensure rapid targeting and reliable performance in high-intensity combat scenarios.
The RS4 supports an extensive lineup of weapons, including 12.7mm heavy machine guns like the Browning M2 and WKM-B, 5.56mm M249 light machine guns, and multiple 7.62mm options such as the M240, UKM-2000C, and M134 Gatling. It also accommodates 40mm grenade launchers, including the MK19, MK47, and H&K GMG with airburst capability, along with non-lethal systems. Further integration options include coaxial machine-gun kits and anti-tank guided missiles, giving the Swedish Army a highly flexible and future-ready remote weapon solution.
