Saab Trackfire RWS Chosen by FMV in Major Defense Contract Worth SEK 1.5 Billion
Saab has announced that it has secured a significant order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, FMV, for the Trackfire Remote Weapon Station. The contract, valued at approximately SEK 1.5 billion, was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025, with deliveries scheduled to take place between 2026 and 2028.
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| Trackfire RWS. Credit: SAAB |
The Trackfire system is designed as a stabilized, remotely operated weapon station suitable for both land and naval platforms. It is intended for roles such as anti-surface warfare, counter-unmanned aerial systems, general support missions, and force protection.
The order is closely tied to the Amphibious Battalion 2030 program, which is part of Sweden’s broader effort to strengthen future amphibious capabilities within the armed forces. The Swedish Army will also benefit from this procurement, reinforcing its modernization initiatives.
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| Credit: SAAB |
Carl-Johan Bergholm, head of Saab’s business area Surveillance, emphasized the importance of the contract, stating that the Trackfire RWS represents a critical element in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Sweden’s future amphibious forces and the army. He noted that the system’s adaptability and precision make it a valuable asset for modern defense requirements.
Weapon compatibility is a central feature of the Trackfire design. It can be fitted with heavy machine guns such as the M2 12.7mm, medium-caliber weapons like the M230LF 30x113mm Bushmaster chain gun optimized for counter-UAS missions, and general-purpose machine guns including the FN MAG 58 in 7.62mm. Additional options include 5.56mm machine guns, 40mm grenade launchers, and systems for non-lethal effects.
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| The Finnish Navy’s Jehu-class landing craft U707 is equipped with a Saab Trackfire remote weapon station, armed with a 12.7 mm NSV heavy machine gun and a 7.62 mm PKM machine gun. |
In terms of movement, the system offers elevation from -20° to +55° and continuous azimuth rotation. It achieves a maximum angular velocity of 120 degrees per second and a maximum acceleration of 400 degrees per second squared, enabling rapid and precise target engagement.
The Trackfire RWS integrates advanced sensor technology, including a day camera with a zoom range from 40° to 2°, an uncooled infrared imager, and a Class 1 eyesafe laser rangefinder capable of measuring distances beyond 4000 meters with accuracy within ±5 meters.
Among its distinctive capabilities, the Trackfire RWS supports dual-weapon configurations, video tracking, and a laser trainer. It also incorporates integrated counter-unmanned aerial system modes, which can employ proximity-fuzed ammunition to effectively neutralize aerial threats.
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| Credit: SAAB |
The director unit weighs around 280 kilograms without weapons or ammunition, and the system is compliant with MIL-STD-461F and MIL-STD-810G standards. It can operate in temperatures ranging from -30°C to +55°C, ensuring functionality in diverse environments.
This acquisition underscores Sweden’s commitment to equipping its forces with advanced technology that enhances both land and maritime operational readiness. Beyond conventional defense, the procurement of the Trackfire RWS also highlights Sweden’s focus on the growing drone threat in modern battlefields. With its flexible sensor and weapon capabilities, the system is positioned as part of a broader strategy to counter asymmetric warfare, which is increasingly shaped by UAV technology.
Written by Henry Wan
Henry Wan is an independent defense journalist with over 14 years of experience reporting on military affairs and security issues. He has covered defense strategies, military technology, and geopolitical developments with a consistent focus on accuracy, independence, and a comprehensive understanding of global security matters.