This year marks the 30th anniversary of the development in Sweden by FMV of the Combat Boat 90. The latest version is Combat Boat 90HSM with high performance and increased capability. The concept for Battle Boat 90 was developed by FMV in 1987 and the first boat was built two years later. Manufacturing takes place at the former family company N. Sundin Dockstavarvet AB, which since 2017 is part of Saab Kockums AB. Combat boat 90HSM has the same hull as its predecessors but is still a brand-new boat. More than 250 CB90 vessels are currently operational with multiple navies worldwide.
CB90 HSM has a hull length of 14.9m, a total length of 16.3m, a beam of 3.8m, and a draught of 0.9m. The light and full-load displacements of the vessel are 18t and 24.5t respectively. From being more of a troop transport vehicle, it has now gained greatly enhanced efficiency and scouting ability as well as a platoon management system.CB90 HSM is powered by two Scania Diesel V8 engines that develop a maximum power of 900hp each. The engines are linked to S32 Mix flow water jet through hydraulic clutches. The propulsion system improves the manoeuvrability of the vessel and ensures a speed of 38kt during rough sea conditions up to sea state one or less.
The modified boat has the capacity to carry up to 18 soldiers and three crew members. CB90 HSM features a Saab Trackfire remote weapon station (RWS) for a 12.7 mm machine gun or 40mm grenade launcher and a Ksp 58 coaxial machine gun, which offers high precision and performance. The boat can be customised with a combination of sensors, weapons, and integration options in line with customer requirements. The weapon station is stabilized and has a good sensor fit, with both day and night capability, which results in long-range detection effectiveness. The platform enables the integration of ballistic armour, a coaxial weapon, smoke grenade launchers, a laser target designator, and a defensive aids suite.
In connection with the celebration of the Combat Boat’s 30 years at the Amphibious Regiment, based in Berga, company guidance boats and life-long combat boats were handed over to the Swedish Armed Forces. In July 2017, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) contracted Dockstavarvet for the construction of new combat boats for Amphibious Corps. The boats will go directly into operation, and immediately contribute to the unit’s ability to carry out its tasks. Six have been delivered to FMV and deliveries will be made to the Swedish Armed Forces before the turn of the year. A total of 18 new HSM will be built, and the final delivery will take place in 2020
