The effects of microadditions of V and Be on age-hardening, microstructure, and mechanical behavior of Al-Li-Cu-Mg alloy 8090 are investigated. Small additions of V and Be significantly increase the peak hardness and mechanical properties of the alloy aged at 190 °C. A transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/ EDS), optical, and X-ray diffraction investigation shows a higherS′ (Al₂CuMg) precipitate density for alloys containing V and Be, indicating an enhanced nucleation rate forS’ precipitation. The V and Be additions are more effective than prior-aging deformation for increasing the yield strength of age-hardened 8090 alloy. The V addition increases ductility significantly, which is attributed to the homogeneous distribution of slip lines and extensive cross slip that occurs during deformation of the V-containing alloy.