Sweden orders additional Amfibiebro 400 M3 amphibious bridge systems for its army.

Sweden has entered into a contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) to supply an additional nine Amfibiebro 400 floating bridge systems for its armed forces. These systems will enhance the operational capabilities of the Swedish Army by providing a 300-meter (approximately 985 feet) variant of the solution, with the first unit scheduled for delivery in the fall of 2024. The Amfibiebro 400 is also known as the M3.
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Sweden has entered into a contract with GDELS to supply an additional nine Amfibiebro 400 floating bridge systems. (Picture source: GDELS)

This agreement is part of a contractual option for the delivery of up to 25 bridges between 2025 and 2027, valued at 400 million Swedish kronor (about $39.2 million), a contract originally signed in 2022.

Jonas Lotsne, the Army Operational Head at the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, spoke positively about exercising this option, emphasizing the significant impact on the army's readiness for combat. It will allow the army's combat units to be equipped with a rapidly deployable communication system for more than one brigade earlier than expected, thus improving the operational flexibility and mobility of the Swedish Army.

The Amfibiebro 400, also known as the M3, represents the latest advancement in GDELS's series of bridge systems designed to maintain the mobility of ground military vehicles across various water obstacles. Operable by just two people, the Amfibiebro 400 can be quickly transformed from a bridge into a multi-bay raft.

The M3 system also guarantees high mobility, mission availability, and a seamless land-water transition, all operable by a reduced crew. Thanks to a high level of automation, the M3 promises low operating costs. As a bridge or multi-part ferry, the M3 can carry loads up to MLC 85 for tracked vehicles and MLC 132 for wheeled vehicles, allowing the passage of all types of main battle tanks.

Furthermore, the M3 stands out for its interoperability with other bridging solutions such as the SRB (Standard Ribbon Bridge), FSB (Floating Support Bridge), and IRB (Improved Ribbon Bridge), along with coupling devices to ensure a suitable interface at all times. This versatility makes the M3 an ideal choice for operations requiring different types of equipment but a unified approach. A simulation system is also available for operator training.

This system was utilized during the NATO exercise “Anakonda 2016” in Poland and Iraq, where it enabled uninterrupted conduct of military operations regardless of the terrain. These practical experiences allow for the adaptation of solutions to the actual needs of clients and the specific operational environment. The M3 is presented as a leading operational solution, thanks to its mobility, versatility, and ability to adapt to any terrain, effectively supporting the logistics of the armed forces while ensuring high operational availability through field-tested solutions.

With this contract, Sweden becomes a priority customer for GDELS during the specified period, ensuring a higher level of service and support from the company.