Swedish defense firm Saab has received a 9.6-billion-kronor ($1-billion) contract from Sweden’s defense authorities to proceed with the final production stage of two advanced Blekinge-class (A26) submarines. The agreement covers additional materials, system enhancements, and production support, with the majority of deliveries slated between 2026 and 2032. The project underscores Sweden’s commitment to reinforcing its naval deterrence and underwater surveillance capabilities.
The A26 Blekinge-class is engineered for multi-domain maritime operations, offering mission adaptability, autonomous operation, and integration with uncrewed systems for joint missions. Saab developed the class to combine traditional undersea combat roles with modern intelligence and reconnaissance capabilities, ensuring compatibility with emerging unmanned underwater technologies.
One of the submarine’s most distinctive elements is its Multi-Mission Portal — a large, flexible launch system that supports deployment and retrieval of special forces units, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and manned submersibles. This feature significantly broadens the A26’s operational range, enabling it to conduct covert surveillance, reconnaissance, and special operations from beneath the surface.
With a length of 66.1 meters, beam of 6.75 meters, and displacement of 1,925 tons, the Blekinge-class combines stealth with endurance. Its hybrid propulsion system, powered by three diesel and three Stirling engines, allows for extended submerged operations with reduced acoustic signatures. Designed for a core crew of 17–26 sailors and a maximum complement of 35, the A26 integrates advanced technologies to deliver superior operational autonomy and undersea resilience.
