In the meantime, Naviris, Fincantieri, Naval Group and Navantia are developing the MMPC European Corvette

Saab and Babcock International Group (Babcock) signed a strategic cooperation agreement to explore the development of the design of a new advanced corvette of around 100 meters in length.

The agreement, signed at DSEI 2023 on 12 September, aims to develop a highly capable and adaptable surface combatant corvette to meet the needs of international customers. The idea is to merge Saab’s expertise in naval Combat Management Systems and composite structures with Babcock’s platform design and integration know-how to create a new class-leading capability. The two companies intend to market the new design to export markets worldwide jointly.

The announcement comes as other companies, such as Naviris, Fincantieri, Naval Group and Navantia, are developing the Modular and Multirole Patrol Corvette (MMPC), a new class of surface combatant, as part of the EU’s Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO).

Commenting on the agreement, Saab’s President and CEO Micael Johansson said: “We have complementary capabilities and resources, including expertise, technologies and market presence that can enhance our competitive advantage when combined. By combining our capabilities and resources, we recognise the potential to leverage each other’s strengths.”

Meanwhile, Babcock CEO David Lockwood added: “This is the beginning of an exciting new relationship between Babcock and Saab. It recognises the potential to jointly offer a wider range of integrated solutions to international customers and builds on the strong cultural and technical links between the two Groups.”