Saab has secured a significant contract to deliver the Universal Tank and Anti-Aircraft System (UTAAS) sighting and fire control system for the Combat Vehicle 90 (CV90) infantry fighting vehicle, further cementing its partnership with BAE Systems Hägglunds, the original equipment manufacturer of the CV90. The contract is valued at 700 million Swedish kronor, equivalent to approximately $63 million.
Carl-Johan Bergholm, the Head of Business Area Surveillance at Saab, highlighted the deep-rooted collaboration between Saab and BAE Systems Hägglunds in developing the UTAAS, which was specifically tailored for the CV90. “The Combat Vehicle 90 is an effective and appreciated combat vehicle which is now in high demand by different armed forces worldwide. To meet the increased demand, we have strengthened our production capacity,” Bergholm stated.
The UTAAS is designed to provide an integrated sighting and fire control system that boasts a high probability of hitting both land and air targets, including helicopters. One of its notable features is its impressive maximum firing range of 5,000 meters (16,404 feet), with a targeted range for air engagements of up to 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) where the hit probability remains high.
A key aspect of the system is its stabilized independent line of sight, which ensures that the target remains centered within the reticle while the fire-control computer manages the aiming of the weapon. According to Saab, “The beam paths for all channels go through the same aperture, offering good system stability and no need for realignment.” Additionally, the design of the top module allows for large deflection angles in both azimuth and elevation, crucial for effectively engaging fast-moving aircraft.
The modular approach of the UTAAS allows users to select from various performance levels and sensor options, which includes anti-laser eye protection mechanisms and different thermal imaging capabilities. This versatility means that the system can be tailored for various weapon systems and can be seamlessly integrated with existing command and control infrastructures. It also features an interface for smart ammunition programming units, enhancing its operational effectiveness.
Currently, the UTAAS is compatible with a range of combat vehicles and tanks, and it is actively utilized by CV90 fleets in multiple countries, including Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Estonia. This contract reaffirms Saab’s commitment to advancing military technology and its potential to meet the evolving demands of armed forces globally.
