Sweden has been developing the A26 program for several years – a future system based on the experience of earlier Gotland and Södermanland class ships. The A26 structure was designed with the specificity of the Baltic Sea in mind: a shallow water area with difficult hydroacoustic conditions that make it difficult to detect underwater vessels.
As the manufacturer itself points out, earlier Swedish ships have already proven their effectiveness – during exercises in the US, HMS Gotland remained undetected for so long that the Americans extended its lease for an additional year.
According to the head of the A26 program, Per Nilson, the new units are to be even more advanced.
“The A26 will be quieter, better equipped and capable of operations that have not previously been possible in this class of ships” – Nilson said.
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What makes the A26 stand out? Key technologies
As the producer writes, One of the most important elements of the structure is the Stirling AIP (Air Independent Propulsion) drive, thanks to which the ship can stay underwater for up to several weeks without having to surface.. This is key to reconnaissance missions, protection of critical infrastructure and anti-ship operations, and at the same time an element that dramatically reduces detection.
The second strategic solution is the Multi Mission Portal – a section in the bow of the ship enabling the operation of unmanned vehicles, conducting special operations, transporting combat divers and performing tasks on the seabed. This is a response to modern threats, such as sabotage in energy and telecommunications infrastructure.
Stealth technologies, extensive sensors, modular architecture and advanced electronic warfare systems make it possible The A26 is described as one of the quietest and most adaptive conventional units in the world.
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A26 Blekinge specification
The ship is approximately 66 meters long, 6.75 meters wide and has a draft of approximately 6 meters. Its underwater weight is approximately 1,900 to 1,925 tons. The crew consists of 17 to 26 sailors, with the possibility of taking additional special mission operators. The drive is based on an electric-diesel system supported by the previously mentioned Stirling AIP technology. The operational depth is approximately 200 meters.
Standard armament includes 533 mm torpedo tubes for heavy torpedoes, launchers for lighter 400 mm torpedoes and underwater mine capability. The design allows for the integration of long-range cruise missiles (including Tomahawk), which could significantly increase the deterrence potential in the future.
Poland orders three A26 units
In 2025, Poland officially decided to purchase three A26 ships.
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The estimated schedule assumes that design, equipment and construction work will continue in the years 2025–2030. The first ship may arrive in Poland around 2030., if the unit originally intended for the Swedish fleet is transferred. Further ships are scheduled to enter service in 2031–2035.
The new submarines will dramatically increase the operational capabilities of the Navy. A26 will enable special operations, covert reconnaissance activities, strategic deterrence and protection of critical infrastructure, such as gas pipelines or energy cables running under the Baltic Sea.
