Underwater drone LUUV: Saab develops new sensor platform for Sweden

A new underwater drone is taking shape in Sweden: with the LUUV, Saab is developing an autonomous underwater vehicle intended to set new standards in underwater technology as a sensor platform.

Saab signed the contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV). It is worth 60 million Swedish kronor, or approximately 5.4 million euros.

The project is led by FMV. The end result is to be the concept for a larger unmanned underwater vehicle – a so-called Large Uncrewed Undersea Vehicle (LUUV). As prime contractor, Saab is responsible for design, construction and testing.

Autonomous Ocean Core will be integrated into the vehicle's systems. This autonomous control system from Saab gives vehicles above and below the water surface autonomous capabilities. The first sea trials are scheduled for summer 2026.

Mats Wicksell, head of Saab's Kockums business area, commented: “It is gratifying that, together with FMV and the Swedish Armed Forces, we have the opportunity to develop a new system. The project makes it possible to make significant progress in underwater technology.”

What the underwater drone is intended for

There is a considerable need to monitor and map seabed infrastructure and to detect and deter threats below the water surface. The LUUV is being developed as a sensor platform with various capabilities, intended to support operators in decision-making. In the first phase, it is not designed to carry weapons.