The RBS-17 (Robot System 17) is a Swedish adaptation of the AGM-114 Hellfire missile, optimized for coastal defense and land-based operations. Developed for the Swedish Armed Forces, it enhances defensive and offensive capabilities against sea-based and land targets. Portable and highly accurate, it is designed to counter threats in narrow waterways and along Sweden’s vast coastline.
The system was introduced to meet the Swedish Armed Forces’ need for a flexible, highly mobile anti-ship and ground-target engagement capability. Its small size, lightweight design, and versatility make it suitable for deployment in rugged terrains, and its adaptability ensures effective use against a wide range of target types.
RBS 17 Design and Features
The RBS-17 system includes the AGM-114 Hellfire missile, which is known for its precision and lethality. Sweden’s modifications allow for land-based deployment using a portable launch system, making it effective in defending coastal areas.
The launch system can be rapidly deployed by infantry units and is compact enough to be transported in light vehicles or carried by soldiers. Its ease of integration with various targeting systems, including advanced optical and radar systems, ensures high accuracy in diverse environmental conditions.
RBS 17 Missile System Performance and Capabilities
The RBS-17 boasts a range of up to 8 kilometers, depending on the missile variant, making it ideal for both defensive and offensive coastal operations. Its high-explosive warhead is specifically designed to deliver significant impact against both stationary and moving targets, whether on land or at sea. The missile uses a semi-active laser seeker for guidance, ensuring precision even in challenging conditions. Its lightweight and portable design allow it to be deployed quickly by infantry or mounted on light vehicles, enhancing operational flexibility. With minimal setup time required, the system excels in delivering swift and decisive strikes in constrained spaces and rugged environments.
Operational Use of the RBS-17
The RBS-17 has proven effective in defending strategic coastal areas and narrow straits. It serves as a crucial element of Sweden’s layered coastal defense strategy, complementing other naval and air-based systems. Its ability to strike both stationary and moving targets with precision enhances its utility in both defensive and offensive roles.
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