The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has placed an order for ten new CB90 combat boats for the Royal Swedish Navy. The contract, valued at approximately SEK 400 million (EUR 35.7 million), was announced by Swedish defense company Saab. Deliveries of the advanced boats are expected to commence this year and continue over the coming years.
The contract, worth $38 million, will see Saab supply the next-generation CB90 combat boats, which are renowned for their speed, agility, and versatility. Work on the contract will be carried out at Saab’s Docksta shipyard on Sweden’s eastern coast.
The CB90, initially developed for the Swedish Navy, has become a standard in military assault craft worldwide, with over 250 boats currently in service across several countries. Known for its exceptional maneuverability, the CB90 can perform sharp turns at high speeds, decelerate rapidly, and navigate shallow coastal waters with ease. The boat can reach speeds of up to 40 knots (74 km/h) and has a range of 300 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 20 knots.
The new CB90 Next Generation (CB90 NG) boats will feature significant upgrades over their predecessors. These include an optimized driveline with adjusted engine placement and new waterjets, enhancing stability, speed, and noise reduction. The CB90 NG is also equipped with a new combat management system, advanced sensors for surveillance, and improved ballistic protection.
The CB90 NG has a light displacement of 18 tonnes, a maximum load displacement of 24.5 tonnes, and measures 16.3 meters in length with a beam of 3.8 meters and a draught of 0.9 meters. Powered by two 900 hp engines, the boats can carry up to 21 fully-equipped amphibious troops. The craft is designed to perform a variety of missions, including maritime patrol, surveillance, troop landing, and counter-surface threats.
The CB90 NG is equipped with a robust weapons platform, including options for large-caliber machine guns, MK19 grenade launchers, naval mines, and depth charges. The boats can also be fitted with Saab’s Trackfire remote weapon station and the Giraffe 1X short-range 3D surveillance radar. Enhanced protection is provided by lightweight polyethylene lining and safety glass.
Expanded Coverage:
