The vehicle will be used to evaluate future underwater capabilities and operations alongside existing naval platforms, including submarines. Its results will help Swedish authorities decide how to acquire and use autonomous underwater systems.
“This project demonstrates how new technologies can be rapidly translated into practical operational value,” said Mats Wicksell, head of Saab’s Naval business area. “The uncrewed underwater vehicle can contribute to increased endurance, enhanced situational awareness and strengthened underwater capabilities.”
“The fact that we have also been able to develop and test the system in such a short timeframe demonstrates the strength of the collaboration between the Swedish Armed Forces, FMV and Saab,” Wicksell said. The project is led by Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration, FMV, in cooperation with the armed forces and Saab.
The next phase is expected to develop more advanced capabilities. Findings from the demonstrator will support work on software, sensors and autonomous functions, as well as future product development.
The vehicle uses Saab’s Autonomous Ocean Core, a control system for autonomous surface and underwater operations. Saab said its software-led approach and Swedish expertise in submarine design and sensor integration helped shorten development.
The programme builds on Saab’s previous investment in autonomous underwater systems. The announcement did not specify the demonstrator’s dimensions, endurance or payload, or set a timetable for operational acquisition.
