In response to heightened security concerns following the war in Ukraine, Sweden has made a significant move to strengthen its air defense capabilities. The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has placed an order with domestic defense giant Saab worth 300 million kronor for the Mobile Short-Range Air Defense System (MSHORAD). The order, finalized in the last quarter of 2023, is scheduled for delivery between 2024 and 2026.

Under the agreement, FMV and the Swedish Armed Forces plan to integrate the systems onto BvS10 armored vehicles in two separate configurations. Saab Dynamics President Görgen Johansson expressed satisfaction with Sweden’s decision to adopt Saab’s MSHORAD solution, highlighting the system’s adaptability and advanced defensive capabilities.

The MSHORAD system is designed to counter low-altitude threats such as drones and helicopters. It combines the Giraffe 1X mobile radar unit with a mobile firing unit based on the RBS 70 NG, both of which are integrated into Saab’s GBAD C2 ground-based air defense command and control system.

With its adaptable design suited for dynamic battlefield environments, the MSHORAD system is expected to significantly enhance Sweden’s air defense capabilities while ensuring greater NATO interoperability. Defense experts note that this investment will not only strengthen Sweden’s national security strategy but also bolster regional defense stability in Northern Europe.