Saab Introduces CB90 CX With Crewed and Autonomous Naval Capabilities

Swedish defense company Saab has introduced the Combat Boat 90 Capability X (CB90 CX), a new naval craft designed for intelligence gathering, anti-ship warfare, and short-range air defense. Announced on 2 November 2026, the larger and more capable version of the Combat Boat 90 supports both crewed and uncrewed operations, with Sweden confirmed as its launch customer and production already underway.

 

The CB90 CX expands the existing combat boat platform beyond troop transport. It features increased payload capacity, upgraded onboard systems, and improved operational capability across a wider range of sea conditions. The vessel incorporates Saab's Autonomous Ocean Core technology, allowing navies to operate the craft with or without personnel onboard.

 

Saab has developed three initial configurations for different naval missions. The intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) version uses the company's Giraffe 1X radar to support situational awareness. The anti-ship warfare configuration is designed for over-the-horizon engagements against surface vessels. At the same time, the short-range air defense (SHORAD) version incorporates an anti-aircraft autocannon to address threats including uncrewed aerial systems.

 

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The configurations are intended to operate independently or together as part of distributed naval forces, enabling smaller vessels to contribute surveillance and combat capabilities alongside larger warships. The optionally crewed design also offers flexibility in missions where deploying personnel may involve elevated risks.

 

Anders Hellman, Head of Saab's Docksta business unit, said the new platform reflects a shift towards distributing greater combat capability across naval fleets rather than relying solely on additional vessels.

 

The CB90 CX will operate alongside Saab's smaller CB90 NG platform. Nine navies across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific and the Americas currently use the existing Combat Boat 90 family. Saab has not disclosed production quantities, contract values, or delivery timelines for the new variant.

 

Source: Saab