Saab brings new autonomous capability to naval vessels
Begin of November, Saab presented Autonomous Ocean Core, a ready-to-use autonomous control system to provide autonomy capabilities to surface and subsurface naval platforms in military and civilian missions.
Autonomous Ocean Core is a vessel agnostic control system with an open architecture, designed to make vessels autonomous to enhance their mission success at sea. It provides baseline autonomy, including vessel control, to platforms on or below the ocean surface and allows operators to add additional capabilities continuously without losing built-in safety functions.
With Autonomous Ocean Core integrated, un-crewed vessels can operate on missions such as mine detection and clearance, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, as well as electronic warfare. The system has different modes for maneuvering on a mission, each supporting precise control and operational flexibility based on the mission’s need. Furthermore, the system can be can be configured to operate in three different manners, each tailored to specific operational needs and safety requirements.
The system is ready to perform tasks right out of the box, with or without added functionality. With safety assured, it provides a solid foundation for expanding autonomy capabilities through Saab's continuous development and third-party collaborations.
Autonomous Ocean Core on CB90
Saab has leveraged the proven CB90 system to create the Enforcer 3 – a fully autonomous, multi-mission research vessel that enables cross-continental research and development. The Enforcer 3 platform exemplifies Saab’s broad global network and the distinct advantages it brings to U.S. and international stakeholders. Equipped with advanced navigation, communication and ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) systems, the Enforcer 3 supports collaboration with military units in search of innovative capabilities and provides startups with a dynamic platform to test and refine emerging technologies.
More and more tasks can be performed both manned and unmanned. Especially routine tasks or missions that are potentially dangerous, such as operations in bad weather conditions or in a conflict zone, are ideally suited for unmanned vessels. They can then minimize the risks for the crew.
The CB90 NG is based on a proven design and operational success, since the first boat was commissioned. CB90 NG can effortlessly carry multiple troops and cargo, in shallow or open waters, whilst maintaining incredible speeds and manoeuvrability. Perfected from a basic model, additional applications include marine police, pilot, fire fighter, airport rescue, search and rescue, and environment control.
Proven design and operational success
The Combat Boat CB90 has been built and delivered to many customers all over the world for 35 years. The CB90 is a versatile, fast and highly maneuverable vessel that has been used for years mainly for coastal defense, amphibious operations and the transport of troops and equipment, but also gets a larger role at sea and along the coast thanks to modifications. The added value of this boat lies in its robustness, speed and flexibility.
The Combat Boat CB90 is designed to carry out operations in waters where larger naval vessels cannot or can only operate to a limited extent. The design with a shallow draft and maximum speed over 40 knots makes it a powerful platform for rapid interventions, especially in areas that are difficult to reach.
The CB90 is of particular importance to special forces because of its ability to operate quickly and quietly, both during the day and at night. The boat offers space for a significant number of troops and equipment, while its speed and maneuverability allow it to quickly attack, infiltrate enemy lines, withdraw or bring troops into or out of enemy territory. All this makes the CB90 a popular platform for special forces and for Marines worldwide.
Current trends in maritime security and military operations show a shift towards the possibility of conflict in urban and coastal areas. There is an increasing demand for small, rapidly deployable units that can operate flexibly in different environments.
The CB90 fits in well with this trend due to its mobility and adaptability. There is also an increasing focus on multi-domain operations, where maritime, air and land operations must fit together seamlessly. The CB90 can quickly deploy troops, support attacks and cooperate with other maritime units, which increases interoperability.
The vessel has also proven itself on the high seas, for example when the Swedish navy took CB90s on a Dutch navy ship to Somali waters to combat piracy. But the CB90 has not only been active in the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, CB90s also sail on the Amazon and in the Mediterranean Sea. Since Dockstavarvet delivered the first prototypes of the Combat Boat 90 H to the Swedish Navy in 1989, almost 300 CB90s have been built and delivered to navies all over the world.
What happened in 2024?
2024 has been an important year for Saab, marked by significant developments across various sectors. With a strong emphasis on innovation, defense, and sustainability, Saab has continued to solidify its position as a leader in cutting-edge technology.
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