Sweden is taking significant steps to modernize its defense capabilities through contracts awarded to Swedish defense manufacturer Saab, focusing on air and coastal missile systems as part of its military enhancement strategy.
Saab has secured a contract extension from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) valued at 466 million Swedish kronor (approximately $45 million) for the continued development and integration of the Gripen C/D fighter aircraft. This move underlines Sweden's commitment to modernizing its air capabilities, particularly through the integration of advanced missile systems.
The Gripen C/D, which has been operational since 1988 and officially entered service in 1996, is known for its versatility and high maneuverability. Designed for various missions, the aircraft can perform air defense, ground attacks, and reconnaissance missions. The latest contract will implement key updates and facilitate the integration of future air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, broadening the operational capabilities of the Gripen fleet.
Lars Tossman, Director of the Aeronautics Division at Saab, stated, "The Gripen C/D contract extension marks an important step for our defense. The integration of new advanced missile systems reflects our commitment to providing high-quality solutions. We are proud to contribute to Sweden's defense capabilities through this contract."
Equipped with advanced technologies, the Gripen model features capabilities like low radar signatures and the ability to operate from minimally equipped air bases, making it suitable for various operational environments. The Gripen is powered by the Volvo Aero RM12 turbofan engine and can achieve speeds up to Mach 2, with differing range capabilities depending on the variant.
Alongside enhancements to its air force, Sweden is also focusing on bolstering its coastal defense capabilities. Saab has signed another contract with the FMV for the modernization of the country's coastal anti-ship missile systems, with the total order valued at approximately $72.4 million (SEK 800 million). This upgrade will incorporate the RBS15 Mk3 anti-ship missile system, enabling Sweden to strengthen its maritime security against potential threats.
According to Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s business area Dynamics, "Sweden will receive a significant capability increase with an anti-ship missile featuring a more advanced target seeker, increased range, and a larger warhead. RBS15 is explicitly developed for the complex environment and harsh weather conditions of the Baltic Sea." The RBS15 Mk3 missile possesses enhancements over its predecessor, the RBS15 Mk2, and is capable of being launched from both truck-mounted and naval platforms.
The reintroduction of coastal anti-ship capabilities began with the RBS15 Mk2 model, which was integrated back during the revitalization of Sweden’s armed forces and has been adapted to today's requirements. Deliveries of the RBS15 Mk3 are anticipated to commence by 2026, providing considerable advancements to Sweden's maritime defense posture.
These projects are part of Sweden's broader strategy to strengthen its military infrastructure, particularly as reported tensions and geopolitical challenges have raised concerns among Baltic nations. For example, following the mysterious severing of underwater cables last November, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson held discussions with Baltic leaders about enhancing joint security initiatives. This included calls for improved operational readiness within coastal defenses.
Earlier this month, Saab secured three contracts from the FMV, showcasing the urgency and importance of reinforcing Sweden's national security. The first contract aimed to improve the country’s autonomous mine countermeasure systems to facilitate safer and more efficient naval operations.
Another agreement involved the deployment of Saab’s Sea Giraffe naval radar, especially effective against small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), strengthening Sweden's capability to counter aerial threats. With these developments, the Gripen enhancements and the new anti-ship missiles reflect Sweden's proactive approach to addressing contemporary security challenges and its commitment to investing significantly in its defense infrastructure.
Looking toward the future, it remains to be seen whether other Baltic nations take similar measures to upgrade their military defenses as tensions continue to shape the regional security environment. Sweden’s modernization efforts indicate not only readiness but also strategic foresight amid potential threats to national sovereignty.
