Swedish defence company Saab and Singapore’s ST Engineering have joined forces to offer a variant of the Littoral Mission Vessel (LMV) to the Estonian Navy.
The LMV, already in operation with the Republic of Singapore Navy as the Independence-class, was jointly developed by Saab Kockums and ST Engineering Marine. Saab handled the basic design, while the Singaporean partner carried out detailed design and construction. Eight vessels are currently in service with Singapore.
Designed for lean manning, the LMV requires a crew of only 23 and offers flexibility through a helicopter deck, a multi-mission bay for containerized systems, and stern ramps for deploying boats or unmanned vessels. The design also allows for mine-laying operations, a capability Estonia has sought to expand since 2021.
For Estonia, the acquisition would represent a significant enhancement in naval capability, moving beyond its current focus on mine warfare and patrol vessels. Saab highlights that its naval combat systems, widely used by allied navies in the Baltic Sea region, make the LMV a tested and interoperable option.
The two companies are engaging with potential local partners in Estonia to explore opportunities for cooperation, including the possibility of local hull construction, in line with expected requirements for domestic content in future procurement plans.
