Saab Showcases RBS-15 Gungnir Capability Against Advanced Air Defence Systems

RBS-15 Mk4 Demonstration Highlights Multi-Domain Precision Strike Warfare

Swedish aerospace and defence company Saab has highlighted the advanced strike capabilities of its RBS-15 missile system through a newly released promotional video. The demonstration illustrates how the missile could be employed to neutralise critical elements of sophisticated integrated air defence networks, including systems resembling the Russian S-400 Triumf . The showcase reflects evolving doctrines of multi-domain warfare, where coordinated precision strikes play a decisive role.

RBS-15 Mk4 Gungnir: Role and Design Philosophy

The RBS-15 is a long-range anti-ship missile that has progressively evolved to include a credible land-attack role. Its latest variant, RBS-15 Mk4 Gungnir , represents the next generation of the missile family. Saab describes Gungnir as a complete system solution, designed for seamless integration across air, naval, and ground platforms. This flexibility allows forces to deploy the missile effectively in highly contested operational environments.

Demonstration of Multi-Platform Launch Capability

The promotional video presents a coordinated strike involving six missiles launched from different domains. Two missiles are fired from a Visby-class corvette , two from truck-mounted ground launchers, and two from JAS 39 Gripen aircraft. This scenario highlights the missile’s adaptability across diverse force structures and its suitability for joint and combined operations.

Targeting High-Value Air Defence and Naval Assets

In the simulated strike, a Gripen-launched missile hits a target identified as the 91N6 surveillance and engagement radar, a core sensor of the S-400 system. This radar provides wide-area detection and is central to the functioning of the air defence network. The scenario also depicts the destruction of a surface-to-air missile launcher and naval targets represented by Type 052D destroyer , underscoring the missile’s dual anti-ship and land-attack capability.

Strategic Relevance in Contemporary Conflicts

First introduced in 1984, the RBS-15 has been continuously upgraded to counter emerging threats, particularly advanced air defence systems. Saab’s demonstration positions the missile as a relevant asset for modern navies and air forces, especially in littoral and high-intensity conflict scenarios. The emphasis on networked targeting, precision strikes, and cross-domain launches reflects broader trends in future warfare concepts adopted by NATO and allied forces.

Important Facts for Exams

• RBS-15 Mk4 Gungnir is the latest variant of Sweden’s RBS-15 missile family.

• The missile has both anti-ship and land-attack capabilities .

• It can be launched from air, sea, and land platforms .

• The 91N6 radar is a key component of the Russian S-400 air defence system.

• RBS-15 was first introduced in 1984 and has undergone multiple upgrades.