The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has signed agreements with Rheinmetall and Hensoldt for anti-aircraft automatic cannons and radar systems for the amphibious battalions. The contract is valued at approximately 670 million SEK, with deliveries commencing in 2028.
– The automatic cannon is a powerful weapon that, with high precision, can neutralise targets such as drones or helicopters, thereby protecting own units and enhancing offensive capability, says Emil Waxin Nilsson, project manager at FMV, in a press release.
The order includes SeaSnake 30 automatic cannons in calibre 30x173, including airburst ammunition, and the Spexer 2000 3D MKIII Naval radar system. The SeaSnake 30 is a remotely operated naval weapon, equipped with cameras, infrared sensors, and laser rangefinders. The system features automatic target detection with the capacity to track multiple targets simultaneously and a firing rate of 1100 rounds per minute. According to Rheinmetall, the agreement covers eight weapon systems, with an option for up to 29 additional systems.
The equipment will be installed on the amphibious battalions' combat boats and integrated into existing command systems. The acquisition is part of the work on Amphibious Battalion 2030, a collaborative project between the Swedish Armed Forces, the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI), and FMV, as announced by the latter.
With this order, Sweden becomes the first NATO country to acquire the system, according to Rheinmetall. Deliveries are planned to start in February 2028, with final delivery by the end of the same year. The agreement also includes spare parts, training systems, and integration support. There are options for additional systems for other platforms, as well as agreements concerning ammunition and service.