In an unprecedented achievement, Saab and Sweden have successfully developed and tested a counter-unmanned aerial system (c-UAS) in just 84 days. This rapid turnaround is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Swedish Air Force, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, and various industry partners.
The newly unveiled system, known as “Loke,” is a modular and scalable mobile technology specifically designed to detect and neutralize drone threats. Loke encompasses the entire kill chain, beginning with detection and classification of aerial targets using the Giraffe 1X multi-mission radar. Following detection, the system incorporates the Trackfire remote weapon station to intercept and neutralize identified drones. Additionally, it features a lightweight command and control system founded on a short-range air defense concept, enhancing its operational efficiency.
The rapid development of Loke was achievable due to innovative approaches that involved “cleverly repurposing existing products and integrating new features and technologies,” according to Carl-Johan Bergholm, Senior Vice President and Head of Saab’s Surveillance business area. This agility in development is particularly crucial as modern combat scenarios increasingly incorporate drone warfare, evident in recent conflicts such as the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
In emphasizing the importance of such advancements, Major General Jonas Wikman, Chief of the Air Force, stated, “This is a clear example of how we are building the capabilities required and that we are prepared to deviate from normal processes to meet today’s threats quickly.” This reflects a strategic shift in how military forces are adapting to the evolving landscape of aerial threats.
The Loke project was spearheaded by the Swedish Armed Force’s Luftstridsskolan (Air Warfare School), along with contributions from the Ledningsstridsskolan (Command and Control Warfare School) and the Flygstaben (Air Force Staff), with additional support from the Markstridsskolan (Ground Warfare School). Future operators from the Norrbotten Air Wing (F21) also played a significant role in the system’s development.
Looking ahead, plans are in motion for the full integration of the Loke system into Swedish Air Force combat units by late 2025, underscoring the commitment to bolstering national defense against aerial threats.
