Saab and Swedish Air Force Deploy Counter-Drone System "Loke"

Stockholm – Saab and the Swedish Air Force, in collaboration with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), have expedited the deployment of "Loke," a new capability designed for detecting and countering hostile drones. The concept was developed and evaluated in an unprecedented 84 days.

The introduction of this counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) capability addresses the rapidly evolving threat posed by drones. The proliferation of drone technology has significantly altered the battlefield, presenting challenges as commercial drones are often low-cost, low-signature, and can operate autonomously or in swarms, making them difficult to detect with conventional air defence systems originally designed for aircraft and missiles.

The "Loke" concept provides a comprehensive solution covering the entire kill chain. It integrates proven components such as the Giraffe 1X radar for detection and classification, alongside a lightweight command and control system based on the SHORAD concept. The system is completed with effectors like the Trackfire remote weapon station. Saab highlighted that the accelerated development involved repurposing existing products and integrating new features, bypassing standard multi-year development cycles.

"This is a clear example of how we are building the capabilities required and that we are prepared to deviate from normal processes to meet today's threats quickly," stated Major General Jonas Wikman, Chief of the Air Force. Personnel from Norrbotten Air Wing have been integrated into the project to ensure operator perspectives influenced the development. The system is described as scalable and adaptable to evolving threats.