In a swift demonstration of engineering collaboration, Saab, the Swedish Air Force, and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) have developed and evaluated the “Loke” concept in just 84 days. This new system is designed to detect and counter hostile drones, addressing the growing need for effective counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) in modern defense strategies.
The increasing prevalence of drones has created a unique challenge for military forces, as conventional air defense systems are ill-suited for targeting small, low-flying, autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These drones often operate in swarms, evade traditional detection methods, and present an economic dilemma, as using expensive military assets against low-cost drones is inefficient. As drone technology evolves rapidly, military solutions must adapt to ensure effective defense capabilities.
The development of the “Loke” system started as an industry demonstration but quickly escalated into a focused, rapid effort to deliver a mobile and adaptable solution to Swedish Air Force combat units. Typically, such projects would take much longer, but the collaboration between Saab, the Air Force, and FMV achieved the goal in just over two months.
The “Loke” system integrates several key components, including the Giraffe 1x radar for detection and classification, and a lightweight command and control system. A Trackfire remote weapon station, typically used on naval vessels, is also part of the solution, providing flexible response capabilities. This approach allows for the creation of a comprehensive, modular system that is adaptable to a variety of operational environments.
Carl-Johan Bergholm, Senior Vice President of Saab’s business area Surveillance, highlighted the innovative approach taken to integrate existing technologies with new features in record time. The quick development process reflects a willingness to move away from traditional timelines and think creatively to meet emerging threats.
The system’s scalability ensures it can adapt to future developments in drone technology and be further enhanced with additional sensors and weapon systems. It is also designed to function during redeployment, offering continuous protection.
Swedish Air Force Chief Major General Jonas Wikman emphasized the importance of agility in the face of new threats. The project was led by the Air Warfare School (Luftstridsskolan), Command and Control Warfare School (Ledningsstridsskolan), and the Air Force Staff (Flygstaben), with support from the Ground Warfare School (Markstridsskolan). Norrbotten Air Wing (F 21) personnel also played a critical role, ensuring the system’s operational relevance.
The “Loke” system is expected to be fully integrated into Swedish Air Force combat units by late 2025, marking a significant step in countering the evolving threat of unmanned aerial vehicles. The project highlights the Swedish Armed Forces’ commitment to rapid development and deployment, ensuring the protection of national security in an increasingly complex aerial threat landscape.
Counter-Drone capability in just 84 days
The Swedish Air Force (@Forsvarsmakten), FMV, and Saab have evaluated a capability designed for detecting and countering hostile drones.
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— Saab (@Saab) March 17, 2025