Ukrainian Navy Demonstrates Combat Use of Likely Swedish RBS-15 Missiles Against Sivash Platform for the First Time

The Ukrainian Navy demonstrated the combat use of what are likely Swedish RBS-15 anti-ship missiles for the first time during a strike against the Sivash platform.

The launcher was identified by the Vodogray Telegram channel.

Due to the poor video quality, it is difficult to accurately identify the type of combat vehicle. However, specific elements of the launcher, especially the design of the cabin, the location of the equipment compartment, and the shape of the transport-launch containers, point to the RBS-15.

An additional indicator is the operation of two engines located on either side of the fuselage, which is a typical feature of this Swedish missile.

Although the Navy released the launch video in the context of the destruction of the Sivash platform used by the Russian military, the video itself was recorded back in March — the date shown on the video is 12/03/2026. Therefore, this is likely a different incident.

The transfer of Swedish anti-ship missiles to Ukraine was first announced back in 2022. Since then, only one type has been publicly confirmed — the lightweight RBS-17.

RBS-15

The RBS-15 is a family of Swedish-designed anti-ship cruise missiles developed by Saab. The missile is intended to engage surface targets but also has limited capabilities for striking ground targets.

The system was developed starting in the late 1970s in response to Sweden’s need for a long-range anti-ship weapon capable of operating under active countermeasures.

The first version entered service in the 1980s and has been modernized several times since then.

Modern variants, including the RBS-15 Mk3 and Mk4, have a range of over 100 km (depending on the version), are equipped with inertial navigation with GPS correction, and feature an active radar homing head during the terminal phase of flight.

The missile is capable of flying at low altitude over the water (sea-skimming), which makes it difficult to detect and intercept.

The RBS-15 can be launched from various platforms — ships, coastal systems, and aircraft, including JAS 39 Gripen fighters.

The Ukrainian Navy most likely received the Mk2 version with a range of up to 70 kilometers.