NATO has selected Saab to spearhead a groundbreaking initiative in underwater defense capabilities. The Saab-led MANGROVE consortium will lead the Allied Underwater Battlespace Mission Network (AUWB-MN) project, a multinational effort aimed at establishing interoperability between maritime uncrewed systems and conventional naval platforms across allied nations.
NATO Launches AUWB-MN Project
Formally launched on 1 September 2025, the AUWB-MN project is part of NATO’s wider Digital Ocean and Antisubmarine Warfare Barrier Smart Defence Initiative. It will focus on developing a Reference Architecture and a Test and Reference Environment for a mission network integrating crewed and uncrewed systems operating above, on, and below the water.
The system aims to provide secure and rapid information exchange, enhancing operational coordination across domains and enabling combined missions between NATO allies. Once finalized, the project’s framework is expected to become a new operational standard for NATO maritime operations.
Saab and MANGROVE Consortium at the Helm
Saab’s business area Kockums will lead the MANGROVE consortium, which includes leading European and international partners such as CETENA and IDS (part of Fincantieri Group), FlySight, GraalTech, Miraya, Saab UK, BlueBear, S2IX, and the University of Plymouth.
“Saab is delighted to lead this pivotal project for NATO. The consortium’s expertise will be dedicated to the successful development of a mission network that enhances NATO’s underwater operational capabilities. As the underwater domain grows in strategic significance, this project represents a critical step for collective maritime security,” said Mats Wicksell, Head of Saab’s Business Area Kockums.
NATO’s Commitment to Maritime Security
The project enjoys sponsorship from twelve nations, led by the United Kingdom, alongside Sweden, the United States, Australia, Spain, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. These countries have committed to adopting the standard once completed, reinforcing NATO’s collaborative approach to maritime defense.
“The AUWB-MN project is a significant step in modernizing NATO’s warfighting capabilities in the underwater domain. We are confident Saab and the MANGROVE consortium will deliver a robust mission network that strengthens maritime defense across the alliance,” said David Burton, Project Director, NATO Antisubmarine Warfare Barrier Smart Defence Initiative.
Strengthening NATO’s Underwater Battlespace
By integrating advanced digital technologies and fostering cooperation among allied navies, the AUWB-MN project will strengthen NATO’s ability to counter underwater threats, enhance antisubmarine warfare, and secure maritime trade routes.
With Saab at the helm, the initiative marks a turning point in underwater battlespace management, positioning NATO to meet future maritime security challenges with greater efficiency and resilience.
