The Swedish Navy will be the first NATO member to use the new Seasnake 30 naval system from manufacturer Rheinmetall.
The initial contract signed in February 2026 provides for the procurement of eight systems worth around 63 million euros.
The systems will be used as the main armament of the new fast attack boats Combat Boat 90 installed. Delivery of the first system is scheduled for February 2028.
The framework agreement has a term of four years and includes training ammunition with air-exploding capability, 30 mm training ammunition, spare parts and support services. The contract also includes the option to procure up to 29 additional Seasnake 30 systems.
Light naval system with a focus on short-range defense
The Seasnake 30 is a lightweight, remotely piloted naval system designed for short-range defense missions. In addition to the 30 mm turret cannon, the system has high-resolution daylight cameras, infrared sensors and a laser rangefinder.
The system provides automatic target recognition and the ability to track multiple targets simultaneously. The nominal maximum rate of fire is 1,100 rounds per minute.
A key differentiator of the Seasnake 30 is its integrated air-bursting ammunition, which increases effectiveness against aerial targets, including drones. Its compact, low-signature design helps reduce detectability by enemy sensors.
First NATO customer strengthens strategic positioning
The order from Sweden represents the first contract for the Seasnake 30 with a NATO member state and solidifies the system’s position in the international maritime defense market. For Rheinmetall The agreement underlines the company’s role as a provider of modern maritime solutions within the alliance.
The Swedish decision also signals confidence in the system’s operational capability and technological development potential, particularly in light of growing demand for protection against asymmetric threats and unmanned systems.
+ NATO plans to send the world’s largest drone fleet to protect the Baltic Sea
Source and images: Rheinmetall. This content was created using AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
