Swedish Blekinge-class submarines: A new word in the stealthy attack submarines of the future

 

Swedish Blekinge-class submarines: a new generation of stealthy attack submarines

The Royal Swedish Navy is awaiting the arrival of new Blekinge-class attack submarines (A26), which are scheduled to enter service by 2028. These submarines are being developed by Saab Kockums and are designed to replace the aging Gotland-class submarines, which have been the backbone of the Swedish submarine forces since the late 1990s. The new class of submarines promises revolutionary capabilities in underwater warfare, combining high stealth, modularity, improved weapons systems and the ability to launch unmanned vehicles.

Key features and capabilities: 

Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology

The A26 submarines will be equipped with an air-independent power plant (AIP) based on Stirling engines powered by liquid oxygen and diesel fuel. This system allows submarines to stay underwater for up to 18 days without having to surface, making them less vulnerable to enemy detection.

Improved stealth and protection

A case with reduced acoustic visibility, designed using anti-resonance technologies.

The use of anti-detection coatings and active noise reduction systems.

The shape of the hull and the location of the propulsion systems are minimized to reduce hydrodynamic noise.

The ability to deploy underwater drones

The Multimission Portal compartment, located in the front of the submarine, will allow launching underwater drones (UUVs) and guided underwater vehicles for reconnaissance, mine clearance and even attacking operations.

The ability to work with new generations of autonomous underwater reconnaissance and electronic suppression systems.

Armament and strike capabilities

Six 533-mm torpedo tubes with the possibility of using modern Swedish heavy torpedoes Torped 62.

The possibility of equipping cruise missiles (in the future) to destroy ground targets.  Optionally, a vertical launch system (VLS) can be integrated to expand the combat potential.

Deep-sea operations and stealthy amphibious missions 

The unique modular design will allow the boats to be adapted to perform special operations, including dropping combat swimmers and reconnaissance missions.