Saab to produce ten combat boats for Sweden based on the CB90 Next Generation design.

On June 28, 2024, Saab announced it had secured an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) for ten combat boats. The contract, valued at approximately SEK 400 million (€35,274,651.16), is set to begin in 2024 with deliveries to be made continuously over the subsequent years. The boats, based on the CB90 Next Generation design, will be manufactured at Saab’s shipyard in Docksta.
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The CB90-class fast assault craft, developed for the Swedish Navy by Dockstavarvet, is a class of military assault craft known for its speed, agility, and versatility. (Picture source: Swedish MoD)

Mats Wicksell, head of Saab’s business area Kockums, stated that combat boats are advanced platforms suitable for various missions and expressed that Saab’s naval capabilities continue to contribute to Sweden’s defense.

The CB90-class fast assault craft, developed for the Swedish Navy by Dockstavarvet, is a class of military assault craft known for its speed, agility, and versatility. The CB90, also referred to as Stridsbåt 90 H(alv) or Combat Boat 90 Half, can carry and deploy a half platoon of amphibious infantry. It is capable of sharp turns at high speeds and can decelerate from top speed to a full stop in 2.5 boat lengths. Its lightweight, shallow draft, and twin water jets allow it to operate at speeds up to 40 knots in shallow coastal waters. The boat is propelled by two 625 bhp Scania DSI14 V8 Diesel engines and two Kamewa FF water jets, giving it a range of 240 nautical miles at 20 knots.

The CB90 accommodates a crew of three (two officers and one engineer) and can transport up to 21 amphibious troops with full equipment. It is armed with three Browning M2HB machine guns, one Mk 19 grenade launcher, and can carry four naval mines or six depth charges. The CB90 HSM variant includes the Saab Trackfire Remote Weapon Station (RWS).

The CB90 Next Generation model features several enhancements. These include new jets with higher efficiency, improved ergonomics, and better crew comfort. It also has a new combat management system and advanced sensors for enhanced surveillance and attack capabilities through the Trackfire system. The CB90 Next Generation has a displacement of up to 24.5 tons, a length of 16.3 meters, and a beam of 3.8 meters. It can achieve speeds well beyond 40 knots, has a cruising speed of 38 knots, and a range of 300 nautical miles at cruising speed.

The CB90 Next Generation is designed with lightweight polyethylene lining and safety glass for enhanced CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) and ballistic protection. The weapons platform can include stabilised turntables, smaller missile systems, and remote weapon stations. Its interior and strong bow ramp enable deployment onto unprepared beaches.

The CB90 Next Generation has also been showcased internationally, such as at the DSEI 2021 exhibition in London. With over 250 boats in operation worldwide, the CB90 series is established as a platform for various military operations.