The Latvian Ministry of Defence has ordered an air defense system from Saab under a framework agreement.
Saab will supply its short-range, ground-based RBS 70 NG system, valued at 2.1 billion Swedish kronor (approximately $209 million), along with firing units, trainer units, and missiles.
Deliveries are scheduled between 2026 and 2030.
“Saab continues to support the Latvian National Armed Forces with a strong ground-based air defence capability which will significantly enhance its crucial ability to detect and engage aerial threats,” said Görgen Johansson, the company’s senior VP and head of Business Area Dynamics.
This acquisition strengthens Latvia’s defenses, which borders Russia to the east, and reinforces NATO’s eastern flank.
RBS 70 NG
The RBS 70 NG can neutralize adversarial aircraft, uncrewed aerial vehicles, and missiles from up to 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) away, operating both day and night.
It features an automatic target tracker and a rapid reload time of under five seconds, improving accuracy and reaction speed.
The Man-Portable Air Defense System (MANPADS) provides Latvian forces with flexibility for various missions, while its unjammable laser guidance ensures effectiveness against electronic warfare.
In February, Sweden announced a military aid package that included the RBS 70 NG bound for Ukraine.
