Sweden Invests SEK 1.5 Billion in Saab’s RBS 70 NG Air Defence System to Boost National Security

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RBS 70 NG Saab

Sweden has awarded a SEK 1.5 billion contract to Saab for its cutting-edge RBS 70 NG mobile short-range air defence system. The deal, confirmed by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), marks a strategic investment in Sweden’s ability to counter modern aerial threats, including drones, aircraft, and missiles.

The RBS 70 NG (New Generation) is not just an upgrade—it’s a leap forward in mobile air defence. Designed for flexibility and precision, the system features:

  • Automatic target tracking for enhanced accuracy

  • Built-in night sight, enabling 24/7 operational capability

  • Maximum engagement range of up to nine kilometers

  • Compatibility with Saab’s Mobile Short-Range Air Defence (MSHORAD) platform

This advanced system empowers operators to detect, track, and neutralize threats with minimal delay, making it a vital tool in Sweden’s defence arsenal.

The timing of this procurement is no coincidence. With rising geopolitical tensions and the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in conflict zones, Sweden is proactively reinforcing its airspace security. Deliveries of the RBS 70 NG systems are scheduled for 2027–2028, ensuring long-term readiness.

According to Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s business area Dynamics, “We are continuously contributing to strengthening the capabilities of the Swedish Armed Forces, and Saab’s air defence systems play a vital role in keeping Sweden’s skies secure”.

Saab is no stranger to international defence collaboration. With operations in over 30 countries and products sold to more than 100 nations, the company has built a reputation for innovation and reliability. Its portfolio spans:

  • Aeronautics

  • Weapons systems

  • Command and control technologies

  • Sensors and underwater systems

This latest contract further cements Saab’s role as a cornerstone of Sweden’s domestic defence capability and a key player in the global defence industry.

One of the most forward-looking aspects of the deal is the inclusion of equipment that will allow the RBS 70 NG to be integrated into future MSHORAD solutions. This modularity ensures that Sweden’s investment remains adaptable to evolving threats and technological advancements.

This contract is part of a broader trend in Sweden’s defence modernization. In recent months, Saab has also secured deals for:

  • A Combat Training Centre from Denmark (SEK 680 million)

  • Additional Gripen E equipment from FMV

These acquisitions reflect a comprehensive strategy to enhance both offensive and defensive capabilities across land, air, and training domains.

Sweden’s decision to invest in Saab’s RBS 70 NG system is more than a procurement—it’s a statement of intent. As nations around the world reassess their defence postures, Sweden is taking decisive steps to ensure its sovereignty and security remain uncompromised.

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