Saab buys Danish defense company

LINKOPING, Sweden, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- A Danish naval company that designs and manufactures mine disposal charge systems has been acquired by Saab of Sweden.

Saab said the acquisition of Nordic Defense Industries further develops Saab's leadership in the unmanned underwater domain when it comes to regional reach, technology and innovative solutions.

"With the acquisition we are strengthening our position in the mine counter-measures market, building a foundation for continued profitable growth," said Gorgen Johansson, head of Saab's Dynamics business area. "Our regional footprint will be strengthened as well as our role as a global supplier of mine counter-measure solutions."

"With the high-tech solutions for mine disposal provided by NDI we will have a product portfolio that covers the total need among our mine counter-measure customers."

NDI will be integrated into Saab Dynamics within its Underwater Systems business unit. The combination of Saab's experience and knowledge from the AUV/ROV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle/Remotely Operated Vehicle) market and NDI's innovative mine disposal solutions will create a unique MCM house within Saab.

"After more than 20 successful years in the defence industry, with the challenges inherent from being a small stand-alone defense company, I am pleased to see new and exciting possibilities arise for NDI from the upcoming integration with Saab," said Jess Otzen, owner and managing director of NDI.