Saab to modernize Sweden's RBS 97 Hawk missile system

LINKOPING, Sweden, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Saab is to provide life-extension services for for Sweden's RBS 97 Hawk medium-range surface-to-air missile system.

The air defense system, originally from Raytheon, is a key element in Swedish air defense, capable of destroying high-flying targets from a range of as much as 24.8 miles.

"The service life extension will implement new capabilities for the system, making it better able to counter current and future airborne threats," Saaab said in announcing the contract from the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration. "The work will include upgrades to hardware and software across all system components such as the high power illuminating radar, missile launcher and combat command unit."

Saab said fulfilling the contract will require Saab's Växjö facility to recruit more staff with relevant hardware and software engineering expertise and the possibility of temporarily transferring personnel from Sweden's Air Defense Regiment to Saab is being explored.

The work involved includes adding new capabilities to the system and performing upgrades to all components.

Saab did not disclose the value of the contract.