The Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command has placed an initial order with Saab for deliveries of the RBS 70 NG air defence system, Saab announced on 28 August 2026.

The contract, which is valued at SEK 1.2 billion (EUR 110,000), also enables Finland to place additional future orders for the RBS 70 NG as well as for training, spare parts and maintenance equipment.

“We are proud to continue supporting Finland’s Defence Forces and contributing to keeping the nation’s skies safe,” Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s Dynamics business area, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “With RBS 70 NG, Finland will receive a state-of-the art short-range air defence capability to effectively meet evolving aerial threats.”

The Finnish Defence Forces have been a user of the previous version of RBS 70 since 2008. The latest generation RBS 70 NG features the system’s unjammable laser-beam-riding missile while also adding a range of new capabilities, such as an automatic target tracker and built-in night capability, which further increases hit probability and enhances the system’s operational use.

RBS 70 NG: benefitting from Bolide 2

On 8 May Saab officially launched the new-generation Bolide 2 missile for the RBS 70 NG system. The Bolide 2 missile features a larger warhead and better terminal flight performance than the Bolide missile introduced in 2003.

Like the Bolide missile before it, the Bolide 2 employs an adaptable laser proximity fuse, which can be used to optimise performance against smaller air targets such as cruise missiles or unmanned aerial vehicles.

As deliveries start in 2027, the Bolide 2 will become the standard ammunition for the Saab RBS 70 NG short-range air defence system, although it can still be fired by previous-generation RBS 70 launchers.