A coastal defence arm of the Swedish Navy Dockstavarvet for the Amphibious Corps manufactured a new military assault boat Combat Boat 90 HSM (CB90 HSM). It is primarily intended for operations on the coastal waters of Sweden.
CB90 HSM is a new modified version of the existing CB90 vessel, which was commissioned in 1991. It offers improved speed, manoeuvrability, attack, and surveillance capabilities.
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In July 2017, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) contracted Dockstavarvet for the construction of 18 new combat boats for Amphibious Corps. Estimated to be worth SEK400m ($47.9m), the contract also includes documentation, training, spare parts, and options for additional boats.
In October 2019, the first CB90 HSM was delivered to the FMV, while the remaining 17 boats will be delivered in the coming months. The new boats are expected to serve the Swedish Navy until 2040 and after.
More than 250 CB90 vessels are currently operational with multiple navies worldwide.
Combat Boat 90 HSM design and features
Combat Boat 90 HSM features a completely modernised internal section. The modified boat has the capacity to carry up to 18 soldiers and three crew members. Equipped with a bow ramp, the boat’s structure enables forceful landing on rocky beaches.
The new driveline, in combination with the optimal placement of the engine, ensures higher stability and speed and silent operation. It offers enhanced ergonomics and superior crew comfort and efficiency.
CB90 HSM has a hull length of 14.9m, total length of 16.3m, beam of 3.8m and draught of 0.9m. The light and full-load displacements of the vessel are 18t and 24.5t, respectively.
The upgraded combat boat features new operational capabilities, including firepower, tactical awareness and swift action. It integrates a new combat management system, sensors and weapon systems.
The boat is equipped with modern technology and sub-systems, including a fire-control computer, video tracking module, recoil buffer, and stabilisation system.
CB90 HSM weapon station details
CB90 HSM features a Saab Trackfire remote weapon station (RWS), 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.
RWS can be armed with a range of small, medium, and heavy machine guns, lightweight medium-calibre cannons, automatic grenade launchers, and non-lethal weapon systems.
The sensor module of the weapon station integrates CCD TV, infrared (IR) cameras, and a laser range finder (LRF) to improve surveillance and target engagement capabilities.
Trackfire RWS also features a stabilised independent line-of-sight (SILOS) capability to ensure comprehensive ballistic calculation and 3D target prediction.
The platform enables the integration of ballistic armour, a coaxial weapon, smoke grenade launchers, a laser target designator, and a defensive aids suite.
Propulsion and performance
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 38k during rough sea conditions up to sea state one or less.
The vessel sails at a maximum speed of 45k and can attain a maximum range of 300 nautical miles (nmi).
Contractors involved
FMV contracted Saab to deliver Trackfire remote weapon stations for the Swedish Navy CB90 HSM vessels in September 2017. The contract also includes options for additional systems, integration and service support.
Saab received an order from FMV to supply additional Trackfire remote weapon stations in February 2018.
