Saab Secures Dual Deals for Advanced Corvette Development in Sweden
Saab and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) have formalized two contracts regarding the upcoming generation of surface vessels and corvettes. These include a Product Definition Phase for the Mid-Life Enhancements (MLE) of five Visby-class corvettes, alongside a Product Definition Phase for the successor, Visby Generation 2 corvettes. The overall worth of these agreements is 190 MSEK.
The agreements encompass requirements analysis and mark the initiation of the modification project for the five corvettes, in addition to the procurement of the Visby Generation 2.
“This contract represents a significant advancement for Sweden’s naval combat capability, focusing on the enhancement of existing corvettes and the development of the next-generation vessels. The Visby corvettes have led the way for two decades, and following Mid-Life Enhancements, they will be optimally prepared for upcoming missions. The insights and expertise accumulated by the Visby class over the years will contribute to the design of the Visby Generation 2,” stated Lars Tossman, Head of Business Area Kockums.
The Visby Generation 2 is an evolution of the Visby-class version 5 and will be outfitted with state-of-the-art anti-ship missile systems, torpedo systems, and air defense missile capabilities.
The inaugural Visby-class corvette was launched on June 8, 2000, and currently, five corvettes are actively operational. The Product Definition Phase concerning Mid-Life Enhancements aims to ensure the five vessels will remain operationally relevant beyond 2040. In addition to upgrading the ships’ existing systems, a new air defense missile system will be integrated. The RBS15 anti-ship missile system will also be refreshed to its latest iteration, along with the torpedo system featuring the advanced Saab Lightweight Torpedo.
