STOCKHOLM, — April 2, 2026 : Swedish defense company Saab AB has been awarded a contract valued at approximately SEK 2.6 billion (around $275 million) by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to deliver a mobile and modular counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS). Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2028.
The contract forms part of Sweden’s broader GUTE II air defense procurement program, which has a total value of SEK 8.7 billion. Saab’s role within the program focuses on providing detection and electronic warfare capabilities to counter drone threats, alongside contributions from BAE Systems Bofors, Nammo, and SISU Auto.
System Design and Operational Role
The C-UAS platform has been developed in cooperation with the Swedish Armed Forces and FMV as a fully operational, deployment-ready system. It is designed to provide layered, adaptable, and cost-efficient protection against the growing threat posed by small- to medium-sized unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The system is capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing low-flying drones. It combines Saab’s field-proven sensors and effectors with selected third-party technologies into a single interoperable solution that integrates with existing Swedish defense infrastructure.
A key feature of the platform is its modular and mobile architecture, allowing deployment across varied terrains and operational scenarios. The system supports both vehicle-mounted and stationary configurations, enabling flexible use for territorial defense and infrastructure protection.
Core Components and Capabilities
The system incorporates several established Saab technologies:
Giraffe 1X radar: A compact 3D multi-mission radar weighing under 150 kg, providing 360-degree air surveillance, drone detection, and engagement-quality targeting data.
Trackfire weapon station: Equipped with a 30 mm cannon for kinetic engagement of aerial threats.
Electronic warfare systems: Designed to disrupt or neutralize drone operations through non-kinetic means.
Together, these components form a system-of-systems architecture based on military off-the-shelf solutions. This approach allows rapid integration of additional sensors or effectors depending on mission requirements and threat levels.
Strategic Purpose and Deployment
The C-UAS systems are intended to protect both military units and critical civilian infrastructure, including power plants, railway networks, and population centers. The procurement supports Sweden’s plan to establish territorial air defense companies tasked with area protection.
The program also aligns with previously announced Swedish investments in air defense and counter-drone capabilities. It follows earlier FMV contracts, including orders for additional Giraffe 1X radar systems in December 2025 and Trackfire systems in January 2026.
Carl-Johan Bergholm, head of Saab’s Surveillance business area, stated that the system enhances airspace security by enabling detection, tracking, and mitigation of unmanned aerial threats, while maintaining compatibility with other defense systems.
Program Significance
The acquisition reflects Sweden’s effort to address evolving aerial threats, particularly the increased use of drones in modern conflicts. By integrating mobile and modular counter-drone systems into its defense structure, Sweden aims to strengthen its layered air defense posture and improve protection of both military operations and national infrastructure.
——— End of Article ———
