In a strategic move to fortify its national security, Sweden has chosen Saab‘s (MSHORAD) solution, showing a proactive approach to safeguarding against airborne threats.
The Skr300m ($28.5m) contract, spanning 2024-2026, shows the nation’s commitment to improving technology for agile defence capabilities. The contract was secured in the fourth quarter of 2023.
The MSHORAD system, a mobile air defence solution, will be integrated into the BvS10 armoured vehicle, addressing Sweden’s evolving needs in mobile air defence. The Swedish Armed Forces, in collaboration with FMV, will deploy two configurations of the MSHORAD system, offering a shield against a spectrum of airborne threats on the battlefield.
Görgen Johansson, the head of Saab’s business area Dynamics, expressed pride in the Swedish decision, stating, “We are proud that our Swedish customer has chosen to use Saab’s mobile short-range air defence solution for this purpose. Our advanced solution is truly mobile, providing crucial protection for forces on the battlefield.”
Unveiled in March 2022, Saab’s MSHORAD system is designed to identify, counter, and neutralise various air threats, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and armoured helicopters. The system comprises a mobile radar unit based on the Giraffe 1X radar and a mobile firing unit based on RBS 70 NG. Both units are connected through Saab’s ground-based air defence command and control solution, GBAD C2.
In September 2022, Saab achieved a milestone with the first live firing test of its MSHORAD system, attended by delegates from 15 nations. Through five firings, the tests showcased MSHORAD’s ability to identify, track, and engage multiple targets, including a drone and an elevated helicopter airframe.
