On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the German group Rheinmetall AG announced that it had signed a contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (Försvarets materielverk, FMV) under the Ministry of Defence of the Kingdom of Sweden, for the delivery of SeaSnake 30 remotely controlled naval weapon systems. In addition, FMV signed a contract with Hensoldt for the supply of associated Spexer 2000 3D MKIII Naval radar stations.
SeaSnake 30 / Photo: Rheinmetall AG
Under a broader framework agreement, the first implementing contract with Rheinmetall AG covers eight initial SeaSnake 30 systems, valued at approximately 63 million EUR. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028.
The framework agreement also includes 30 mm training ammunition and 30 mm high-explosive fragmentation rounds, with a four-year term. The contract further covers spare parts and services. Additionally, it contains an option for up to 29 additional SeaSnake weapon systems.
The SeaSnake 30 is a remotely operated naval weapon system designed for close-in defense of naval vessels. In addition to the cannon itself, the system is equipped with a modern daylight sensor, an infrared sensor, and a laser rangefinder. It features automatic target detection and the capability to track multiple targets simultaneously. The nominal maximum rate of fire of the revolver cannon is 1,100 rounds per minute.
Thanks to its integrated programmable airburst ammunition capability, SeaSnake 30 is particularly effective against aerial targets such as drones. Its low profile and compact stealth design make it more difficult to detect by enemy sensors.
This order from Sweden represents an important market success for Rheinmetall AG, as it marks the first time the SeaSnake 30 has been offered to a NATO customer. The decision underscores confidence in the performance and long-term viability of Rheinmetall’s modern naval weapon systems. At the same time, the order strengthens the Group’s position as a reliable supplier of naval defense solutions within the Alliance.
Spexer 2000 3D MKIII Naval / Photo: Hensoldt
Spexer 2000 3D MKIII Naval radar is a compact version of a modern sensor featuring an AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) antenna. It is a short- and very short-range surface radar (VSHORAD), specifically adapted for installation on ships and boats.
It operates in the X band (9–10 GHz) and offers high resolution and good precision against small targets. The system uses a fixed antenna panel, providing an azimuth field of view of 120° (±60°) per panel; therefore, three panels are typically required for full 360° coverage. Elevation coverage extends up to approximately 90°, enabling near-hemispherical coverage when multiple panels are installed.
Its primary maritime tasks include detecting and tracking very small and low-altitude targets (drones, loitering munitions, small suicide boats, low-flying cruise missiles, floating mines, and saboteurs), providing ship self-defense against asymmetric threats, close-range surface surveillance, low-altitude air surveillance, and detecting ground targets when operating near shore.
The radar can track more than 300 targets simultaneously within a 120° sector and can operate in multiple modes. The device is compact – a single panel measures approximately 600 × 500 × 200 mm and weighs around 35 kg. It is resistant to harsh maritime conditions and features low power consumption. The radar is designed as a sensor for close-in defense systems such as SeaSnake 30.
SeaSnake 30 and Spexer 2000 3D MKIII Naval will be jointly integrated into upgraded Stridsbåt 90HSM landing assault craft (manufacturer designation: CB90 Next Generation) produced by Saab AB. Some vessels will also be fitted with the recently contracted Saab Trackfire ARES remote weapon station.
The procurement forms part of efforts to expand future amphibious capabilities under the Amfibiebataljon 2030 program – a joint project of the Swedish Armed Forces, the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI), and FMV –as well as part of enhanced self-defense capabilities for other vessel types.
It is worth recalling that on May 17, 2023, FMV signed contracts with Swede Ship Marine AB for the delivery of eight artillery boats based on the Stridsbåt 90HSM platform, equipped with 120 mm Patria NEMO Navy mortars and 7.62 mm Dillon M134D machine guns (the new lightweight Torped 47 torpedo was also tested on the boats).
#Breakthrough for #Seasnake: #Sweden becomes first #NATO #customer#Rheinmetallhttps://t.co/ffiLRvbowK pic.twitter.com/QwMHUFdyeE
— Rheinmetall (@RheinmetallAG) February 17, 2026