The Swedish CV90120-T Ghost is the latest version of the CV90120-T medium tank (as described by BAE Systems) and is developed on the highly successful Combat Vehicle 90 (CV90) Infantry Fighting Vehicle hull.

The CV90120-T Ghost features a new Compact Tank Gun and BAE Systems latest camouflage technology called ADAPTIV, which is so effective it makes the vehicle invisible to hostile thermal imaging systems, earning it the nickname in the media as “Ghost”.

CV90120-T Ghost Concept

During the 1990’s and early 2000’s, there was much deliberation over the future need of a Main Battle Tank (MBT) in a modern army and that the future requirement would therefore be light weight fire support vehicles with the firepower of an MBT.

However, designers were faced with the principle issues of Firepower (they required a 120mm calibre Main Gun, but with a lower recoil) and protection (they could not add the more resilient heavy armor of an MBT).

BAE Systems rectified these issues by installing a low-recoil 120mm Compact Tank Gun (CTG) in a new turret mounted on a CV90 hull (hence the vehicles name).

The company then set about over a number of years designing, experimenting and developing alternatives to armor to counter threats, such as Active Protection Systems.

But most importantly the company started developing stealth type technologies, making the vehicle invisible to the enemy to ensure its survivability as an alternative to traditional heavy armor.

CV90120-T Ghosts New Components

ADAPTIV

ADAPTIV was developed and patented in Sweden after FMV and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration commissioned BAE Systems in Örnsköldsvik to produce full-scale technology for land vehicles to avoid detection from thermal sensor systems.

After three years of challenging research, a project team of seven people, with expertise in the fields of problem solving, software, sensors, electronics and design, developed this unique solution.

The high tech camouflage system uses modules, which look like cells in a honeycomb to cover the flanks of an armoured vehicle. The modules are made of elements that can be cooled or heated up very quickly as well as controlled individually, allowing different patterns to be created.

The vehicle essentially works like a chameleon, able to mimic its surroundings, or copy other objects such as trucks and cars that can be projected onto the panels from a detailed image bank. The vehicle is also able to signal peaceful intend through flashing text messages across its flank or by creating patterns that can easily be recognized by friendly forces.

Other Stealth Capabilities

The Ghost has also seen changes in its external appearance to reduce its signature against radar detection. reminiscent of the F-117, flat sweeping surfaces have been placed over the gunners sight (glass), the 120mm main gun and mantle. The Drivers hatch has also been modified.

The vehicle has retained the earlier CV90120-T “soft kill” Active Protection System.

120mm Compact Tank Gun

The CV90120-T Ghost uses a different 120mm Smoothbore to the earlier CV90120-T. The Ghosts is the Rheinmetall 120 LLR L47 (calibre Length 47).

The optimized barrel, use of advanced materials, the recoil buffer system and integrated gun cradle result in reduced weight and lower recoil for use in lighter-weight fighting vehicles. It is capable of firing all Rheinmetalls 120mm ammunition.

CV90120-T Ghost Status

Development of the ADAPTIV technology started in 2008. The CV90120-T Ghost was on display for the first time at the UK Defence and Security Equipment International exhibition in September 2011. Since then, BAE has continued improving the ADAPTIV technology to increase its capabilities.

Though still marketed by BAE Systems, there are currently no operators of the CV90120-T Ghost and it remains as Demonstrator.

CV90120-T Ghost Specifications

Firepower
Main Gun	120mm LLR L47 Smoothbore Elevation -8 to +22
Secondary Weapons	x1 coaxial 7.62mm MG
Ammunition Storage	x45 120mm, x? 7.62mm
Mobility
Engine	Scania DS? 804hp (600Kw) Diesel
Transmission	Perkins X300 Series x4 speed forward/x2 reverse
Top Road Speed	70 km/h
Road Range	600km+
Fuel Capacity	525 litres?
Vertical Obstacle	1m
Water Capability	1.4m
Trench Crossing	2.6m
Gradient	60%
Side Slope	40%
Dimensions
Length Gun Forward	?m
Length Hull	6.6m
Width	3.2m
Height	2.4m (Turret Roof)
Ground Clearance	0.4m
Weight	38,000+kg aka 38+ tonne combat
Protection
NBC Protected	Yes
Armor Type	Steel/Passive Modular
Active Protection Systems	Yes
Crew
Commander	Yes
Gunner	Yes
Loader	Yes
Driver	Yes
Additional Crew	—
Troops Carried	n/a

See Also:

⦁ Main Combat Vehicle 90 (CV90) Family Page
⦁ Strf 9040 Page
⦁ CV90120-T Medium Tank Main Page

References:

⦁ BAE Systems 2006 – CV90120-T Tank (04.06.LS.005.ID3107 .pdf Brochure)
⦁ http://www.baesystems.com/en-uk/product/cv90120—strong–agile–lethal
⦁ http://www.baesystems.com/en/article/bae-systems-conjures-up-invisibility-cloak
⦁ http://www.rheinmetall-defence.com/en/rheinmetall_defence/public_relations/themen_im_fokus/entwicklungsschwerpunkt_effektoren/index.php
⦁ http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20110906006225/en/BAE-Systems-Conjures-Invisibility-Cloak