The central element of the programme is a major improvement in air defence capability, which has long been a limitation of the Visby class. The ships currently rely on a 57mm gun as their only air defence weapon.
The upgrade will add nine-cell vertical launchers for CAMM surface-to-air missiles with a range of about 25 kilometres. In Swedish service, the system has been designated Luftvärnsrobotsystem 31.
The modernised corvettes are also expected to receive integration with newer weapons, including RBS 15 Mk 4 Gungnir anti-ship missiles and Tp 47 lightweight torpedoes. The work will also include sensor upgrades and the repair or replacement of ageing ship systems.
Saab received the contract to modernise the five Visby-class corvettes in May 2025. The programme is valued at SEK 1.6 billion and is being carried out with MBDA and Lockheed Martin.
Sweden also signed a separate contract with MBDA in November 2025 for additional CAMM missile deliveries. The introduction of Luftvärnsrobotsystem 31 is expected to give the Swedish Navy important experience before the planned acquisition of new frigates with stronger air defence capabilities.
