Sweden takes next step on Visby MLU and next-generation corvette
Saab announced on 25 January that it has signed two agreements with Swedish defence procurement agency FMV regarding the next generation of surface ships and corvettes for the Swedish Royal Navy.
The product definition phase for the MLU of five Visby-class corvettes, as well as a product definition phase for Visby Generation 2 corvettes, are worth a combined SEK190 million ($22.91 million).
Saab Kockums will conduct an analysis of requirements as the first step towards the Visby-class MLU and acquisition of Visby Generation 2.
‘The Visby corvettes have been pioneers for 20 years, and after Mid-Life Upgrades they will be well equipped for future assignments. The experience and knowledge that the Visby class has gathered over the years will feed into the development of Visby Generation 2,’ said Lars Tossman, head of Saab Kockums.
Visby Generation 2 will be equipped with a modern anti-ship missile system, torpedo system and air defence missile system. It is designed primarily as the mutirole vessel for littoral and blue water operations but it will also be capable of operating in harsh conditions. This new generation of vessels could enter service as early as 2025, according to Shephard Defence Insight.
The MLU for the Visby class aims to keep the five vessels in service beyond 2040. In addition to modifying existing systems on the corvettes, a new air defence missile system will be installed. The RBS15 anti-ship missile system and torpedo system will also each be upgraded to the latest version.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Visby Class Replacement Programme
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
US tests the newest QUICKSINK maritime weapon variant in the Norwegian Sea
The low-cost, anti-ship, precision-guided 500lb class capability was launched by a USAF B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
-
US Navy seeks suppliers for Landing Craft Utility 1700-class
With ongoing market research to find potential shipyards for building LCUs, NAVSEA intends to issue a request for proposals for the programme next year.
-
US Coast Guard orders 10 additional Fast Response Cutters
The USCG exercised a $507 million contract option for the acquisition of 10 extra FRCs. This new order will raise the total number of Sentinel-class vessels procured by the service from 67 to 77.
-
DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
-
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.