Defending the Skies: Modular and Adaptable C-UAS Solutions
On June 25th, 2025, Saab proudly participated in a landmark demonstration at Tofta Firing Range, Gotland, Sweden, showcasing the future of air defense in collaboration and hosted by the Swedish Armed Forces and the Swedish Defence Material Administration.
This high-level event brought together key decision-makers from across the defence sector to experience the operational capabilities of Saab´s state-of-the-art counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) technologies. Similar to `Loke`, this Swedish C-UAS capability is modular and adaptable, and is designed to address the urgent threat posed by drones. The demonstration was designed to be mobile and fast to deploy, as well as easy to manoeuvre, and was mainly conducted by conscripts.
The Challenge of Small, Fast-Moving Drones
As small drones become more advanced, cheaper and more tactical, the threat they pose is increasing rapidly. Ukraine’s recent strike on Russian air bases using low-cost UAVs to hit deep targets shows just how disruptive these systems can be and how quickly countermeasures need to be deployed. Traditional air defences struggle to detect small, fast-moving threats, especially when drones fly low and in swarms. This has made fast, mobile and modular counter-drone solutions a top priority for modern armed forces, both on the front line and for defending bases, logistics and airspace at home.
From Detection to Engagement
The demonstration held on Gotland - named ´Gute´ by the Swedish Armed Forces, showcased an impressive range of products that, when combined, formed a comprehensive kill chain. This included early detection, tracking and classification with the Giraffe 1X radar, decision-making and visualisation via a SHORAD command and control system, and kinetic engagement with a Trackfire ARES (Aerial Response) remote weapon station and the BAE Tridon MK2. This intelligent configuration relies on the flexible integration of existing and modular systems, making use of military off-the-shelf (MOTS) components that have already been field-tested and proven to provide a rapid and reliable defence against aerial threats.
Mobile and deployable
The live demonstration featured several operational scenarios. The Giraffe 1X multi-mission radar, in this solution responsible for air surveillance, detected the aerial objects. Its integrated 'Drone Tracker' function classified and identified the drone as hostile. This information was then relayed to the SHORAD command and control system for processing and coordination with the effectors, which successfully neutralised the threat.
As requested by the customer, the solutions were mounted on a fully mobile platform. Since drone threats are dynamic, unpredictable and often decentralised, a fast, deployable C-UAS solution can manoeuvre and deploy quickly to new hotspots. The modular design of the solution allows it to be adapted to mission requirements, and more effectors can be added for better coverage. The 'Gute' demonstration involves mounting the highly mobile Giraffe 1X radar and the Trackfire ARES remote weapon station on the new 4x4 Sisu GPT vehicle. Meanwhile, the Tridon MK2 is mounted on a Scania flatbed truck.
“Today's demonstration at the Tofta Firing Range showcases Saab's commitment to innovation and collaboration in the face of evolving drone threats. Our modular, mobile counter-UAS solution provides swift and dependable protection, whether it's for defending military operations or securing civilian infrastructure.”
The successful demonstration validated the C-UAS's readiness to integrate multiple platforms into this system-of-systems solution. Guests were able to witness the effectiveness of emerging air defence technologies first-hand, providing key decision-makers with valuable insights into their operational impact and future potential.