Saab Receives Swedish FMV Order for 22 Additional CB90 Next Generation Boats

The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) placed an order for 22 additional CB90 Next Generation (NG) combat boats from Saab, marking a continued investment in Sweden’s naval capabilities. This procurement follows a previous order of 10 boats in 2024 and brings the total number of CB90 NG units ordered in recent years to 32. The contract is valued at approximately SEK 900 million and is part of a broader strategy to modernize and expand Sweden’s coastal defense assets.

CB90. Saab AB

The CB90 NG is an evolution of the original Combat Boat 90, which has been in service since the late 1980s. Developed and manufactured at Saab’s Docksta shipyard, the CB90 series has been widely adopted by various countries for its versatility in littoral and riverine operations. The Next Generation variant introduces several enhancements over its predecessors, including improved speed, maneuverability, and survivability.

The vessel’s design emphasizes rapid deployment and operational flexibility. With a hull length of 19.4 meters, a beam of 3.8 meters, and a draft of 0.9 meters, the CB90 NG is capable of operating in both shallow and open waters. It is powered by two mix-flow waterjets, enabling a top speed exceeding 40 knots and a cruising range of 300 nautical miles at 38 knots. These specifications allow the boat to perform a variety of missions, including troop transport, surveillance, and interdiction.

One of the key features of the CB90 NG is its modularity. The boat can be outfitted with a range of weapon systems, including stabilized turntables, remote weapon stations such as Saab’s Trackfire, and smaller missile systems. This adaptability allows it to be configured for different mission profiles without significant structural modifications. Additionally, the vessel incorporates a new combat management system and advanced sensors to enhance situational awareness and targeting capabilities.

The CB90 NG also prioritizes crew protection. It is equipped with lightweight polyethylene lining and safety glass to provide ballistic and CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) defense. The interior is designed for durability and ease of reconfiguration, while a reinforced bow ramp facilitates rapid disembarkation on unprepared shorelines. These features support a range of secondary applications, including search and rescue, firefighting, and environmental monitoring.

From a logistical standpoint, the CB90 NG is designed for ease of transport and maintenance. It can be moved by land or aboard larger vessels, enabling rapid redeployment across different theaters of operation. The use of aluminum in its construction contributes to a lower weight profile, which in turn enhances fuel efficiency and reduces operational costs.

The decision to expand the CB90 NG fleet aligns with Sweden’s broader defense posture, which has increasingly emphasized readiness and mobility in response to evolving regional security dynamics. The Baltic Sea region, characterized by its complex maritime geography and strategic chokepoints, presents unique challenges that the CB90 NG is well-suited to address. Its ability to operate in confined and shallow waters makes it a valuable asset for coastal surveillance, interdiction, and amphibious operations.

The procurement also reflects a commitment to domestic defense manufacturing. Saab’s Docksta shipyard has a long history of producing naval platforms for the Swedish Armed Forces, and the continued investment in the CB90 line supports local industry and technological innovation. The production of these vessels is expected to proceed over several years, with deliveries scheduled on a rolling basis.

The acquisition of 22 additional CB90 Next Generation combat boats represents a strategic enhancement of Sweden’s naval capabilities. The platform’s design, performance, and adaptability make it a key component of the country’s coastal defense strategy. As regional security concerns persist, the CB90 NG offers a flexible and resilient solution for a wide range of maritime operations.