The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has announced the launch of a strategic project to develop a Large Uncrewed Undersea Vehicle (LUUV), a large autonomous undersea vehicle designed to strengthen the country’s capabilities in maritime surveillance and infrastructure protection.
Saab has been selected as the main contractor and will be responsible for the design, construction, and testing of the new system, which is expected to undergo its first sea trials as early as the summer of 2026.
+ Video: Russia strikes Ukrainian Neptune missile launcher in Zaporizhzhia
Advanced autonomy technology
The LUUV will be equipped with the Autonomous Ocean Core, Saab’s autonomous control system that already provides independent operational capabilities for both surface and subsurface vessels. The integration will enable the vehicle to act as a highly adaptable sensor platform, capable of monitoring, mapping the seabed, and detecting underwater threats.
According to Mats Wicksell, head of Saab’s Kockums business area:
“It is gratifying that, together with FMV and the Swedish Armed Forces, we can rapidly develop an advanced system in a short time. The project makes it possible to create innovative solutions that deliver significant advances in underwater technology and fit well with Saab’s ongoing work in autonomy.”
Initial functions and limitations
Although conceived as a decision-support tool for military operators, the LUUV will not be armed in its initial phase. Its priority will be to provide intelligence, surveillance, and deep reconnaissance, expanding Sweden’s ability to safeguard maritime routes and critical infrastructure.
Strategic context
The project comes at a time when the need to monitor undersea cables, oil pipelines, and gas pipelines is increasingly important in the geopolitical context of the Baltic Sea.
Saab and FMV’s investment in autonomous vehicles reinforces Sweden’s strategy of investing in silent deterrence technologies and advanced undersea operations, preparing the country for present and future threats.
Source and images: Saab. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
