The Swedish Combat Boat 90 (Stridsbåt 90), a renowned asset of the Swedish armed forces for decades and utilized by navies worldwide, including Ukraine, has undergone a significant technological transformation. While its outward appearance, characterized by its landing capability and forward-placed cockpit, remains largely unchanged since the 90s, the boat now boasts the ability to operate autonomously. This new unmanned capability was unveiled at a trade show in Paris in November, marking a significant leap in naval technology.
The core of this transformation lies within Saab’s Autonomous Ocean Core system, which enables remote operation of the Combat Boat 90. The system is housed in a portable case mimicking the boat’s controls, allowing operators to pilot the vessel remotely via live camera feeds. This technology allows several unmanned boats to be controlled simultaneously by a small team, significantly increasing operational efficiency and reducing the risk to personnel in hazardous situations. Moreover, autonomous operation reduces mental fatigue associated with prolonged missions at sea.
This autonomous capability extends beyond simple remote control. The system incorporates advanced features enabling the boat to understand its environment, navigate obstacles, and maintain its position for extended periods. Furthermore, it can automatically deploy underwater vehicles, conduct aerial and maritime surveillance, identify and document unknown vessels, and report information back to operators. This versatility transforms the Combat Boat 90 into a multi-functional platform capable of both overt and covert operations.
The underlying modular design of the autonomous system allows for customization and adaptability based on mission requirements. Just as a smartphone’s functionality can be expanded with different apps, the Combat Boat 90’s capabilities can be enhanced by integrating various modules, including weaponry. This flexibility allows for rapid adaptation to changing operational needs, making the platform highly versatile and future-proof.
The development of this autonomous technology aligns with a broader trend towards unmanned systems in modern militaries. Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson has emphasized the importance of embracing automation and AI in defense, highlighting the US military’s projected reliance on autonomous systems within the next decade. The unmanned capabilities of the Combat Boat 90 are particularly relevant for maritime surveillance, addressing the growing need for efficient and cost-effective monitoring of vast areas like the Baltic Sea, especially considering recent security concerns related to undersea cable disruptions.
The growing demand for the Combat Boat 90, fueled by the current geopolitical climate and its proven performance, has led to a surge in production at the Dockstavarvet shipyard. The facility, owned by Saab since 2017, anticipates doubling its production within the next few years, necessitating expansion of both workforce and facilities. This increased production reflects the boat’s international appeal, with customers ranging from Norway and Mexico to Ukraine and the USA. While attempts to replicate the Combat Boat 90 exist, Dockstavarvet maintains a competitive edge due to its decades of experience and attention to detail in design and integration of various systems. The company continues to refine and enhance the platform, ensuring it remains at the forefront of naval technology.
