Swedish Company SAAB Secures NATO Order for Advanced RBS 70 Bolide Missiles.

The renowned Swedish defense company SAAB announced on December 22, 2023, a substantial order from the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) for its cutting-edge RBS 70 Bolide missiles. The deal, valued at SEK 350 million, underscores NATO's confidence in Saab's missile technology and its commitment to strengthening its air defense capabilities.
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Australian Defence Force Lt. Joshua Davidson (left) and Gunner Bradley King (right) simulate firing an RBS 70 anti-aircraft missile system. (Picture source U.S. DoD)

Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s Dynamics division, expressed his satisfaction with the order, stating, “Through the order from the NSPA, we see NATO countries' continued interest in our missile systems. This order is proof of their trust in our knowledge and in the RBS 70 system.”

The RBS 70 Bolide missile is the latest iteration in Saab's line of short-range air defense missiles and represents a significant advancement in capability. It is designed to address a full spectrum of aerial threats, including fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). With a range exceeding 9 kilometers and an altitude coverage surpassing 5,000 meters, the Bolide missile offers exceptional performance in a variety of combat scenarios.

Saab's RBS 70 system has already seen widespread adoption, with installations in over 19 countries and more than 1,600 systems in service. To date, over 18,000 missiles have been delivered, demonstrating the system's global reach and effectiveness.

The delivery of these advanced missiles is scheduled for 2027, which will enhance NATO's air defense capabilities significantly. This deal not only reaffirms Saab's position as a leading defense supplier but also reflects the growing importance of advanced air defense systems in modern warfare.

With the integration of the Bolide missiles into NATO's arsenal, the alliance will be better equipped to handle a diverse range of aerial threats, ensuring the security and readiness of its member nations in an increasingly complex and unpredictable global security environment.

Defense News December 2023