Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has announced a significant follow-on order for additional GAVIA autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and various payload modules, marking a pivotal advancement in Sweden’s maritime capabilities. The agreement with Teledyne Gavia was signed during the Navy Tech Conference held in Gothenburg and builds upon previous orders placed earlier in February under a multiyear framework agreement.
The GAVIA platform, recognized for its versatility, supports a range of critical operations including mine countermeasures, explosive ordnance disposal, and underwater infrastructure surveys. Its modular and reconfigurable architecture allows for tailored missions, adapting to various operational requirements.
Stefán Reynisson, vice president and general manager of Teledyne Gavia, highlighted the significance of the new agreement, stating that it underscores the value of GAVIA’s innovative modular design and its proven performance in real-world scenarios.
The Swedish Navy seeks to enhance its operational capabilities with the initial batch of GAVIA AUVs set to be delivered in January 2026. This procurement is part of a broader modernization initiative aimed at elevating the Navy’s efficiency, emphasizing the GAVIA platform’s capability to execute diverse missions ranging from mine countermeasures to intelligence collection.
Sweden is not alone in embracing the GAVIA systems; several allied navies are integrating these AUVs into their fleets as they look to bolster their autonomous undersea capabilities. Notably, the Polish Ministry of Defence procured additional GAVIA AUVs in 2022, reinforcing its naval operations focused on mine countermeasure activities aboard Kormoran II-class vessels.
The adoption of GAVIA AUVs is gaining momentum across Europe and beyond. To date, the systems have been acquired by 18 countries, reflecting an increasing global demand for modular AUV platforms designed for both defensive operations and maritime security roles. As nations invest in these advanced technologies, GAVIA is positioning itself as a leading choice for underwater missions across allied fleets.
