Saab continues our technical transfer program with Peru

Leading the Way in Technical Transfer Programs 

This initiative is part of a broader technical transfer program, a concept Saab is well-versed in through previous collaborations with Peru, Mexico, Malaysia, and the USA. While the CB90 will be assembled in Peru, Docksta Shipyard supplies all necessary materials, provides setup assistance, and offers on-site support throughout production, including testing, verification, and quality control.

Oskar Nordlund from Saabs shipyard in Docksta spent approximately three years in Callao, Peru, supervising the construction of the first four boats. Initially, he had no idea his assignment would last so long:

"One of my colleagues who were scheduled to go to Peru and supervise the build during the set-up had to cancel his trip last minute. I was asked to step in with just a few days' notice. I said yes without thinking too much about it and started to prepare for the trip", says Oskar Nordlund, supervisor at Docksta Shipyard. 

Oskar’s assignment began with a two-month stay in Peru, followed by a brief return to Sweden. However, his role soon extended as a new contract were secured during his stay, increasing his time in Peru to three years.

Oskar Nordlund, supervisor at Docksta Shipyard

"Had I’d known from the start that I would spend three years in Peru, I might have hesitated. But I'm so glad I went! It was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience. Despite a few cultural differences and the challenges of working during a pandemic, we got the job done."

CB90: Enhancing Maritime Security for the Peruvian Navy

SIMA’s shipyard in Callao functions as both a shipyard and a naval base. While SIMA oversees the acquisition and construction of the boats, the end user is the Peruvian Navy. The CB90’s are deployed to combat illicit maritime activities, ensuring maritime security and the sustainable use of marine resources.

The Peruvian Navy requires versatile vessels capable of operating along the coast and in rivers. The CB90’s speed, maneuverability in narrow and shallow waters, and adaptability makes it an ideal choice for these missions.

Taking Swedish Craftsmanship to Peru and Bringing Love Back Home

As an experienced boat builder, Oskar was eager to make the most of his time in Peru. It was his first international assignment, and he sought both professional and personal growth:

– When I realized I'd be spending significant time in Peru, I set two goals: to learn Spanish and how to surf. I achieved both! I didn't need formal Spanish classes since most of my colleagues spoke only Spanish. I used a language app and practiced daily at work. While I'm no expert, I can communicate effectively now. As for surfing, a friend taught me, and we often hit the waves after work, Oskar shares.
 

Professionally, Oskar gained valuable insights into optimizing production efficiency and took on larger administrative responsibilities. On a personal note, he met his girlfriend, Paula, in Peru. They now live together in Sweden.

"While Machu Picchu was my favorite place to visit in Peru, I was excited to show Paula the mountains and trails of the High Coast of Sweden last summer. The climate in Lima, where I lived, is very different from Sweden. Fortunately, Paula loves the Swedish climate and nature. We did a lot of hiking last summer", Oskar says
 

Ready for Next Chapter in Peru 

Over a year has passed since Oskar and his colleagues returned to Sweden, now Saab is gearing up to build the fifth CB90 in Peru. Although the client remains the same, this project will take place at SIMA's shipyard in Chimbote.

– We are very pleased that SIMA has chosen to acquire another Combat Boat 90 from us. Last time we started from scratch in the middle of a pandemic and together we built the boats in under two years. Since then, we have shared valuable experiences, giving us even better conditions this time, says Anders Hellman. 
 

Patrik Hörnfeldt, a technical project manager specializing in electrical systems, will be heading to Peru for this project. Patrik previously contributed to the first four boats and will oversee electrical design, inventory management, knowledge transfer, and quality assurance in Chimbote:

"Although we'll be working with a new team at a different shipyard, we now have a better understanding of SIMA’s workflows, expertise, and the types of challenges that arise during different phases of production. This knowledge allows us to refine our methods and improve our preparations even further", says Patrik Hörnfeldt.
 

Saab continues to strengthen its international partnerships, combining Swedish expertise with local collaboration to deliver high-quality boats.