Swedish Defense Materiel Agency (Försvarets materielverk, FMV) and Lithuania’s procurement authority for defense equipment (DMA) have today signed a joint purchase agreement for RBS70 NG. The agreement involves an expansion of an existing joint procurement agreement and development of the strategic defense materiel cooperation between the countries. The agreements signed are partly a joint purchase agreement between FMV and DMA and partly a framework agreement regarding the RBS 70 NG between FMV and Saab. The joint purchase agreement enables DMA to use FMV’s framework agreement with Saab for the procurement of the RBS 70 NG. In this way, Saab provide both countries with better terms and prices and enable a quick and efficient procurement for DMA.
“In the security policy situation we find ourselves in, joint acquisitions, such as this one, are an important method for an efficient material supply and faster growth of our military capabilities. FMV is constantly working to develop collaborations with other countries and this will also be an important part of Sweden’s future NATO membership,” says Göran Mårtensson, director general of FMV.
RBS 70 (Robotsystem 70) is a man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS) designed for anti-aircraft warfare in all climate zones and with little to no support from other forces. Originally designed and manufactured by the Swedish defence firm of Bofors Defence (now Saab Bofors Dynamics, since 2000). Currently, RBS 70 is operational in 20 customer countries, on all continents and in arctic, desert, and tropical environments.In 2003 the “BOLIDE” upgrade system was introduced to the RBS 70. The BOLIDE missile is an RBS 70 Mk 2 upgrade that is faster (Mach 2 vs Mach 1.6), with a range up to 8 km (5.0 mi) and can reach an altitude of 6 km.
In 2011, Saab Bofors Dynamics (successor company of Bofors Defence) announced the introduction of the new RBS 70 New Generation (RBS 70 NG). The upgraded version included an improved sighting system automatic target tracking capable of night vision and improved training and after-action review features. In addition to superb Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) benefits, RBS 70 NG’s sight has been specially designed for even greater flexibility and modularity. The system’s cutting-edge design also means that it can integrate with various vehicles, and has networked and remote-control compatibility.
