Sweden’s Navy is moving closer to a fully automated weapons system on its stealthy Visby-class corvettes with a new robotic hatch system designed to conceal and deploy armaments.
Unlike conventional designs, the Visby corvettes rely on hidden weapons to maintain low radar signatures, and the new hatch system will create the foundation for the upcoming Robot 15 missile system.
Engineers at the Swedish defense procurement agency (FMV) successfully conducted load tests using a robot dummy, confirming the hatch can handle operational stresses.
Saab Dynamics and Svekon, in collaboration with the Naval Staff and the FMV, developed the system with a phased rollout planned until 2030.
According to Technical System Manager Ida Sjöblom, the project is a model of military and civilian cooperation aimed at strengthening Sweden’s defense.
Developing Swedish Navy Defenses
Sweden is also investing heavily in broader naval modernization.
The Gotland‑class submarines, for example, have undergone a comprehensive mid‑life upgrade by receiving new sensors, combat systems, and enhancements to their air‑independent propulsion. These upgrades allow them to patrol longer underwater with improved stealth.
HMS Halland, the last of the class, was relaunched in February 2025 after replacing more than 20 key systems, including advanced command-and-control components.
On the missile front, Stockholm is modernizing its coastal anti-ship capabilities by integrating the RBS15 Mk3 missile on truck-mounted launchers, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026.
The navy has also tested advanced networked command-and-control systems across its fleet, enhancing situational awareness, data sharing, and coordination between vessels during complex operations.
