Saab has made a significant investment of $10 million in Pythom, a space technology firm known for its innovative approach to lightweight and rapidly deployable rockets, with operations spanning both Sweden and the United States. This financial backing is intended to expedite the development and rollout of Pythom’s rocket launch systems, which aim to fill existing gaps in Sweden’s space capabilities.
The Swedish defense firm highlighted that the investment is not only focused on enhancing technological advancements but also seeks to bolster innovation in areas crucial for Sweden’s national security. This move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s infrastructure in space.
The announcement follows Pythom’s progress on its inaugural rocket, dubbed “Birka,” which is being developed at the company’s new manufacturing facility, Nacka Space Beach, located near Stockholm. This facility is unique in its design, intending to produce compact rockets with minimal infrastructure, thereby catering to the increasing demand for local space launch services.
In parallel to its investment in the space sector, Saab is actively pursuing various defense initiatives in collaboration with both Swedish and international partners. Recently, the company joined forces with Boeing and BAE Systems to provide a next-generation pilot training system designed for personnel in the UK’s Royal Air Force.
In another substantial development, Saab secured a contract from the Swedish government valued at around 9.6 billion Swedish kronor (approximately $1 billion). This deal pertains to the final production phase of two Blekinge-class submarines, with most materials and services deliveries planned from next year through 2032.
Additionally, Saab is enhancing its capabilities in the space domain through a partnership with Maxar Intelligence. The collaboration, established in June, focuses on crafting next-generation multi-domain battlespace solutions, particularly aimed at improving space-based drone functionalities. This strategic agreement integrates Maxar’s satellite imagery and 3D terrain data with Saab’s defense systems, thereby improving the operational effectiveness of autonomous platforms in contested environments. This integration ensures precise navigation and targeting, even in scenarios where GPS cannot be relied upon.
