Saab UK has formally opened a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Fareham, UK.
The facility – which develops, manufactures, and supports high-end surveillance systems, including the Giraffe 1X 3-D multi-mission radar and the Seaeye SR20 remotely operated underwater vehicle – was opened on 4 February 2025.
The event was attended by UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP.
In a statement, Saab said the new site “enhances the UK’s sovereign radar and underwater robotics manufacturing capabilities, serving both domestic customers and international export markets, with capacity for further growth”.
The facility supports in-service radar systems operated by the UK’s armed forces, including the Giraffe 1X and Giraffe AMB air-defence systems, and is intended to be a centre of excellence for meeting future sensor capability and servicing requirements.
In 2023, Saab took the decision to commence investment in the site, and the three-building campus supports up to 400 jobs as well as offering apprenticeship opportunities.
Micael Johansson, Saab’s president and chief executive officer (CEO), said in the statement that the investment would help the development and delivery of innovative technologies and products.
In the statement, the UK’s Secretary of State for Defence the Rt Hon John Healey MP said the investment is creating highly skilled jobs as well as driving technology innovation, with this combination helping to ensure development of the next generation of expertise to keep the UK in a leading position at the forefront of defence technology.
Saab describes the Giraffe 1X as a lightweight, high search volume 3-D radar that provides flexibility and redundancy in ground-based air defence solutions. Saab’s Seaeye portfolio covers portable inspection, work-class, and autonomous underwater vehicles.
by Dr. Lee Willett
