Ireland contracts Saab for RBS 70 upgrade
Saab will upgrade the Irish defence force’s RBS 70 air defence missile systems under a recently signed contract announced on 11 June. The contract has an approximate value of £3.5 million.
The contract will see Saab deliver improved firing units, new simulators, night vision equipment and associated weapons support to the Irish defence force.
Additionally, new operator training simulators, upgraded fire units to support the BORC night-capable sight and the latest Bolide missile, and new external power supplies will be supplied. A four-year support agreement is also included.
Rickard Svensson, director marketing and sales, Saab´s market area Western Europe, said: ‘This order is very important because it demonstrates the reliability of the RBS 70 system. It is a modern and reliable system which also has a long lifespan. For the customers it is a great advantage that the system can be upgraded for future use.’
Deliveries are scheduled to occur in 2015.
More from Land Warfare
-
Germany increases Arrow missile defence deal to $6.1 billion as American interest grows
Germany’s move to buy Israel Aerospace Industries’ Arrow missile defence system became public in mid-2023 with approval from the US government shortly after. The first operational system is expected to be in service before 2030.
-
Sweden’s recent air defence spend tips to $6 billion with 2026 procurement planned
Procurement of various short-range systems will begin in the first quarter of 2026, with additional procurements to be made later in the year.
-
Serbia looks to balance lighter platforms and heavier calibres
Even small tactical vehicles can benefit from more powerful offensive and defensive armament, but as recent developments at Yugoimport demonstrate, there are still limitations to the sophistication of what can be fielded.
-
Next-generation gun set to boost US Army combat vehicle capabilities
The 50mm main weapon on the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle currently being competed for by industry will offer a step-change in firepower and targeting over the in-service M2 Bradley.