– HMS Halland has undergone a mid-life modification where we have added a new section, thereby extending the submarine by two meters. We have also replaced, upgraded, and installed nearly 200 different components and systems on board, which means that HMS Halland is now state-of-the-art and will be able to continue operating in the Baltic Sea and its surrounding areas for many years to come, says Ulf Pernholt, project manager at FMV.
The launch on February 13 gathered representatives from Försvarsmakten, FMV, Saab, as well as invited guests from, among others, the parliament, Karlskrona municipality, and the Marine Technology Centre. The work on HMS Halland has been ongoing for almost three years and, in addition to the mid-life modification, has included a general overhaul.
– Securing critical underwater infrastructure and shipping lanes is more important than ever today. The launch of HMS Halland is a testament to Saab's ability to upgrade and deliver advanced submarines with the capabilities that the Swedish Navy demands, says Mats Wicksell, head of Saab's business area Kockums.
The submarine has been equipped with modernized systems, including new sensors and command systems, as well as improved climate adaptation for both cold and warm waters. Over twenty of the systems are the same as those that will be found in the new Blekinge-class submarines.
– We have unique capabilities in the underwater dimension and notice that we are in demand within NATO. The willingness to train with us is great, and one of our tasks is to share our knowledge with allies, says Navy Chief Johan Norlén.
After the launch, sea trials and tests of the new systems await before HMS Halland can be handed over to FMV and taken into operational use by the Navy later this year.