Saab Showcases RBS-15 Missile Against Advanced Air Defences

Swedish aerospace and defence major “Saab” has showcased the advanced strike capabilities of its RBS-15 missile system, demonstrating its potential to neutralise key components of sophisticated air defence networks, including elements resembling the Russian S-400 system. The display comes through a promotional video highlighting the missile’s role in modern, multi-domain conflict scenarios.

RBS-15 Gungnir and Its Operational Role

RBS-15 is a highly optimised long-range anti-ship missile with a proven land-attack capability. The latest iteration, RBS-15 Mk4 Gungnir, represents the next generation of the missile family. According to Saab, Gungnir is designed as a complete system solution, capable of integration across air, sea, and land platforms, enhancing operational flexibility in contested environments.

Multi-Platform Launch Capability Demonstrated

The promotional video depicts a coordinated strike scenario involving six missiles. Two missiles are launched from a Visby-class corvette, two from a ground-based launcher mounted on trucks, and two from “JAS 39 Gripen” fighter aircraft. This demonstration underlines the missile’s adaptability across different force structures and mission profiles.

Simulated Neutralisation of High-Value Targets

In the showcased scenario, the Gripen-launched missile strikes a target identified as the 91N6 surveillance and tracking radar, a critical component of the Russian “S-400 Triumf”. The 91N6 radar provides 360-degree coverage with a claimed detection range of up to 600 kilometres. The video also depicts the destruction of a surface-to-air missile launcher and naval targets represented by Chinese Type 052D destroyers.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• RBS-15 Mk4 Gungnir was ordered by Sweden in 2017.
• RBS-15 has both anti-ship and land-attack capabilities.
• 91N6 radar is a core component of the S-400 system.
• The missile can be launched from air, sea, and land platforms.

Strategic Significance in Modern Warfare

First introduced in 1984, the RBS-15 has evolved to address contemporary threats posed by advanced air defence systems. Saab’s demonstration positions the missile as a relevant asset for NATO forces and littoral operations, reflecting the growing emphasis on networked, precision strike capabilities in future high-intensity conflicts.