Saab Unveils CB90 CX: A Bigger, Optionally Crewed Upgrade For Swedish Navy

Saab has unveiled the Combat Boat 90 (CB90) CX, marking a significant upgrade to its proven naval vessel for the Swedish Navy ¹²³⁴. This new iteration of the CB90 series boasts a larger size and advanced features, including the capability to operate without a human crew ¹²³⁴.

The CB90 CX comes in three distinct configurations tailored to specific military needs: intelligence and surveillance, anti-ship warfare, and short-range air defense ¹²³⁴. Each version is equipped with specialized systems to meet these roles effectively. For instance, the ISR variant utilizes Saab's Giraffe 1X X-band 3D surveillance radar, providing superior situational awareness ²³.

Sweden stands as the inaugural customer for the CB90 CX, having secured a contract for 36 units to be deployed within the Swedish Amphibious Battalion ²³. This acquisition underscores the Swedish Armed Forces' commitment to modernizing their fleet and aligning with the Amphibious Battalion 2030 concept ¹.

One notable enhancement of the CB90 CX is its increased payload capacity, which exceeds that of its predecessor, the CB90 NG, by over 50% ¹. This boost in carrying capacity allows for greater flexibility and operational efficiency, enabling the vessel to transport more equipment and personnel as needed.

In terms of performance, the CB90 CX demonstrates impressive speed and range, capable of traveling at a maximum speed surpassing 40 knots and covering distances exceeding 300 nautical miles ². These attributes make it well-suited for various maritime missions, from rapid deployment to extended patrols.

The anti-ship warfare variant of the CB90 CX is armed with MBDA's Marte ER anti-ship missiles, although Sweden intends to utilize a different missile for its own fleet ². Meanwhile, the short-range air defense variant employs Rheinmetall's Seasnake 30mm autocannon, offering robust protection against aerial threats ².

Integration of the Saab Ocean Core system architecture supports the CB90 CX's unmanned operations and paves the way for future AI integration, enhancing its adaptability and functionality ³. This technological advancement positions the CB90 CX at the forefront of naval innovation, setting a new standard for combat boats.

Currently, the CB90 CX is in production for the Swedish Navy, with plans to operate alongside the existing CB90 NG vessels without replacing them ¹⁴. Additionally, an order for 22 CB90 NGs was recently placed, valued at approximately 900 million SEK, further solidifying Saab's role in the naval sector ¹.

What We Know

• - Saab has unveiled the Combat Boat 90 (CB90) CX for the Swedish Navy ¹²³⁴
• - The CB90 CX is designed to operate without a human crew ¹²³⁴
• - It is available in three configurations: intelligence and surveillance, anti-ship warfare, and short-range air defense ¹²³⁴
• - Sweden is the first customer, with 36 craft contracted for the Swedish Amphibious Battalion ²³
• - The ISR variant uses Saab's Giraffe 1X X-band 3D surveillance radar ²³
• - The CB90 CX has a payload capacity over 50% greater than the CB90 NG ¹
• - It is part of the Swedish Armed Forces' Amphibious Battalion 2030 concept ¹
• - Currently in production for the Swedish Navy ¹
• - Can travel at a maximum speed of over 40 knots and cover more than 300 nautical miles ²
• - The anti-ship warfare variant is armed with MBDA's Marte ER anti-ship missiles, though Sweden will use a different missile ²
• - The SHORAD variant employs Rheinmetall's Seasnake 30mm autocannon for air defense ²
• - Integrates the Saab Ocean Core system architecture, supporting unmanned operations and potential AI integration ³
• - Will operate alongside the CB90 NG without replacing it ⁴
• - An order for 22 CB90 NGs was placed in Q2 2025, valued at approximately 900 million SEK ¹