Swedish defence company Saab has demonstrated the operational versatility of its RBS-15 family of missiles through a promotional video. The display brought into light the missile’s ability to engage naval and land-based targets, including high-value air-defence assets associated with the Russian S-400 system. The RBS-15 Mk4, also known as Gungnir, is designed for anti-ship warfare and land attack roles across air, sea and ground launch platforms.
RBS-15 Missile Family
The RBS-15 is a long-range, sea-skimming missile developed for anti-ship missions. The latest Mk4 variant expands its role beyond maritime strike. It is built for use from aircraft, ships and truck-based launchers. Saab presents it as a multi-domain weapon suited to modern conflict environments.
Targets Highlighted in the Demo
The video showed simulated strikes against:
- A Russian 91N6 surveillance and tracking radar linked to the S-400 Triumf system.
- A launcher from a surface-to-air missile system.
- Naval targets resembling Chinese Type 052D destroyers.
The 91N6 radar is a key component of the S-400 system and provides long-range detection and tracking.
Launch Platforms and Operational Use
The demonstration featured missile launches from a Visby-class corvette, a ground-based launcher and a JAS 39 Gripen fighter jet. This underlined the missile’s flexibility in coastal defence and strike operations. Such multi-platform integration is important for dispersed and networked warfare.
Strategic Significance
The showcase reflects the growing emphasis on precision strike systems against advanced air-defence networks. It also indicates how anti-ship missiles are being adapted for broader battlefield roles. For NATO and littoral operations, such systems are relevant in contested maritime zones and against layered air-defence threats.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026