Finland Orders Additional RBS 70 NG Air Defense Systems

Finland is purchasing additional RBS 70 NG short-range air defense missile systems from Sweden to strengthen its air defense capabilities.

Defense Minister Antti Hykkänen has authorized the country’s Defense Forces to conclude a corresponding agreement with the Swedish company Saab, according to a statement from the ministry.

The RBS 70 NG variant is a more modern and technologically advanced version of the ITO05M system, which is already in service with the Finnish Army.

The upgraded system is equipped with an improved targeting system and automated target tracking capabilities.

The Salpausselkä Anti-Aircraft Division will serve as the primary training site for career military personnel and conscripts to operate the new equipment. This unit is part of the Karelian Brigade and possesses the necessary facilities for training air defense specialists.

The total value of the contract, excluding value-added tax, is €108 million. The full deployment of the acquired capabilities and their integration into the troops will be completed by the end of the decade.

The Swedish company Saab is developing the RBS 70 line as a versatile system weighing approximately 87 kg in combat configuration, including the tripod.

The anti-aircraft missile’s flight speed exceeds Mach 2, allowing it to intercept high-speed targets. It takes 45 seconds to fully deploy the system at the crew’s position, and reloading takes less than 5 seconds.

The modernized NG version of the system can engage air targets at ranges from 250 to 9,000 meters. The maximum engagement altitude reaches 5,000 meters.

The new generation of the system features a modern thermal imaging sight, which ensures effective operation in challenging weather conditions and at night.

As a reminder, various manufacturers of interceptor drones held a demonstration in Finland for the country’s Armed Forces.

The full list of participating companies has not been disclosed, and it is unknown whether Ukrainian manufacturers are taking part in the event.