Saab has received an order from the US Navy to supply the Double Eagle Semi-Autonomous Remotely Operated Vehicle (SAROV) to the Kuwaiti Naval Force.
The Double Eagle family of underwater vehicles is a safe and operationally proven remotely operated system (ROV) used by navies around the world to support mine countermeasures (MCM) missions. In SAROV configuration, the vehicle can be used both as an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) for detection, classification and identification, and as an ROV for mine clearance. The US Navy is acquiring this system as a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program for the Kuwaiti Naval Force.
Developed and produced at Saab in Linköping, Sweden, this sale represents a milestone in the expansion of production of this Swedish technology to the US.
The Autonomous Systems and Submarines Division of Saab, Inc. will produce parts of this system in close collaboration with other production units in Sweden, the UK and Denmark.
“We are excited to introduce the production of this underwater vehicle to the United States. The Autonomous and Underwater Systems team has created a highly experienced team of underwater vehicle experts and significant new production capabilities for Saab that position us for further market expansion in the US,” said Erik Smith, president and CAA of Saab in the US.
“Saab’s journey in the Middle East has grown over the years. Today, we expand our partnerships in Kuwait, leveraging a robust and highly capable solution. Committed to excellence, we are committed to delivering substantial value and enhanced offerings, ensuring that we consistently meet and exceed the growing demands of our customers,” said Killian Swift, Executive Vice President and Head of Saab’s Middle East and Africa region.
These highly maneuverable vehicles can be launched from any type of ship, from the shore or from a vessel of opportunity. All Double Eagle systems can be housed in a standard container, providing a deployable solution on a variety of platforms, enabling rapid response to mine threats.