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|Class after={{sclass|Blekinge|submarine|4}}
|Class after={{sclass|Blekinge|submarine|4}}
|Subclasses=
|Subclasses=
|Built range=1992-1996
|Built range=1992–1996
|In commission range=1996-Present
|In commission range=1996–present
|Total ships building=
|Total ships building=
|Total ships planned=3
|Total ships planned=3
|Total ships completed=3
|Total ships completed=3
|Total ships cancelled=
|Total ships cancelled=
|Total ships active=*HSwMS ''Gotland''
|Total ships active=3
*HSwMS ''Uppland''
*HSwMS ''Halland''
|Total ships laid up=
|Total ships laid up=
|Total ships lost=
|Total ships lost=
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| Ship endurance =
| Ship endurance =
| Ship test depth =
| Ship test depth =
| Ship complement = *18-22 Officers
| Ship complement = *18–22 officers
*6–10 ratings
*6-10 Seamen
| Ship sensors = CSU 90-2 Integrated sonar sensor suite
| Ship sensors = CSU 90-2 integrated sonar sensor suite
| Ship EW =
| Ship EW =
| Ship armament = *4 × {{convert|533|mm|abbr=on|1}} Torpedo tubes
| Ship armament = *4 × {{convert|533|mm|abbr=on|1}} torpedo tubes
*2 × {{convert|400|mm|abbr=on|1}} Torpedo tubes
*2 × {{convert|400|mm|abbr=on|1}} torpedo tubes
*48 × Externally Mounted Naval Mines <ref>{{cite web |title=SSK Gotland Class (Type A19), Sweden |url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/gotland/ |website=naval-technology.com |access-date=2017-09-20}}</ref>
*48 × Externally mounted [[naval mine]]s<ref>{{cite web |title=SSK Gotland Class (Type A19), Sweden |url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/gotland/ |website=naval-technology.com |access-date=2017-09-20}}</ref>
| Ship notes =
| Ship notes =
}}
}}
|}
|}


The '''''Gotland''-class submarines''' of the [[Swedish Navy]] are modern [[Submarine#Diesel-electric|diesel-electric submarines]], which were designed and built by the [[Kockums]] [[shipyard]] in Sweden. They are the first submarines in the world to feature a [[Stirling engine]] [[air-independent propulsion]] (AIP) system, which extends their underwater endurance from a few days to weeks.<ref name="kockums">{{cite web | title=The Gotland class submarine - submerged several weeks | website=Kockums | url=http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/gotland-class/ | access-date=2008-04-06 | archive-date=2011-04-25 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110425220545/http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/gotland-class/ | url-status=dead }}</ref> This capability had previously only been available with [[Nuclear submarine|nuclear-powered submarine]]s.
The '''''Gotland''-class submarines''' of the [[Swedish Navy]] are modern [[Submarine#Diesel-electric transmission|diesel-electric submarines]], which were designed and built by the [[Kockums]] [[shipyard]] in Sweden. They are the first submarines in the world to feature a [[Stirling engine]] [[air-independent propulsion]] (AIP) system, which extends their underwater endurance from a few days to weeks.<ref name="kockums">{{cite web | title=The Gotland class submarine - submerged several weeks | website=Kockums | url=http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/gotland-class/ | access-date=2008-04-06 | archive-date=2011-04-25 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110425220545/http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/gotland-class/ | url-status=dead }}</ref> This capability had previously only been available with [[Nuclear submarine|nuclear-powered submarine]]s.


==Features==
==Features==
As of 2008, the ''Gotland''-class attack submarine is one of the most modern submarines of the Swedish Navy in service, mainly designed for submarine missions such as [[Anti-surface warfare|antiship]]/[[Anti-submarine warfare|antisubmarine]] warfare, collecting of intelligence ([[Signals intelligence#COMINT|communications intelligence (COMINT)]], [[Signals intelligence#ELINT|electronic signals intelligence (ELINT)]]), [[Observation post|forward surveillance]], [[Special forces|special operations]], and [[minelayer|mine-laying]] tasks.<ref name="kockums" />
As of 2008, the ''Gotland''-class attack submarine is one of the most modern submarines of the Swedish Navy in service, mainly designed for submarine missions such as [[Anti-surface warfare|antiship]]/[[Anti-submarine warfare|antisubmarine]] warfare, collecting of intelligence ([[Signals intelligence#COMINT|communications intelligence (COMINT)]], [[Signals intelligence#ELINT|electronic signals intelligence (ELINT)]]), [[Observation post|forward surveillance]], [[Special forces|special operations]], and [[minelayer|mine-laying]] tasks.<ref name="kockums" />


On the water surface, the submarine is powered by two sets of [[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU engines]]. While submerged, the Kockums-built Stirling engine AIP system is used to drive a {{convert|75|kW|adj=on|shp|lk=on}} generator for either propulsion or charging the batteries. A Stirling engine is particularly well suited for a submarine because the engine is nearly silent and can use the surrounding sea water as a heat sink to increase efficiency. Submerged endurance is dependent on the amount of liquid oxygen stored on-board and is described as "weeks". The class is characterized by its low acoustic signatures, extreme shock resistance, and a competent combat system.<ref name="kockums" />
On the water surface, the submarine is powered by two sets of [[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU engines]]. While submerged, the Kockums-built Stirling engine AIP system is used to drive a {{convert|75|kW|adj=on|shp|lk=on}} generator for either propulsion or charging the batteries. A Stirling engine is particularly well suited for a submarine because the engine is nearly silent and can use the surrounding seawater as a heat sink to increase efficiency. Submerged [[Endurance (submarine)|endurance]] is dependent on the amount of liquid oxygen stored onboard and is described as "weeks". The class is characterized by its low acoustic signatures, extreme shock resistance, and a competent combat system.<ref name="kockums" />


Kockums touts extreme maneuverability for this class due to the hull design and a well-placed X rudder. The X rudder provides four control surfaces, along with two mounted on the sail, which enables sharp turns and the ability to operate very close to the seabed. Ship automation and computerized steering allow a single operator to steer the submarine in depth and course, which also results in a smaller crew complement, leading to good accommodation standards and low operating costs.<ref name="kockums2">{{cite web | title=Kockums Promotional | website=Naval Technology | url=http://www.sesusa.org/submarine.pdf | access-date=2011-11-21}}</ref>
Kockums touts extreme manoeuvrability for this class due to the hull design and a well-placed X rudder. The X rudder provides four control surfaces, along with two mounted on the sail, which enables sharp turns and the ability to operate very close to the seabed. Ship automation and computerized steering allow a single operator to steer the submarine in depth and course, which also results in a smaller crew complement, leading to good accommodation standards and low operating costs.<ref name="kockums2">{{cite web | title=Kockums Promotional | website=Naval Technology | url=http://www.sesusa.org/submarine.pdf | access-date=2011-11-21}}</ref>


The class has many features that enhance stealth, helping it to remain undetected. All shipboard machinery is isolated and mounted on rubber dampeners to reduce vibrations and noises; a [[hydrodynamic]] hull design reduces noise, [[infrared]] signature, and active [[sonar]] response. Its magnetic signature is counteracted by 27 independent [[electromagnets]], short circuiting [[extremely low frequency]] (ELF) electrical fields. Various hull coatings reduce active sonar response, and the mast is coated with [[radar-absorbent material]]. Combined with the near-silent operation of the Stirling generator and slow-turning propeller to prevent [[cavitation]], the boats are very difficult to detect under water, especially in their normal area of operations, the Baltic Sea.<ref name="kockums2"/>
The class has many features that enhance stealth, helping it to remain undetected. All shipboard machinery is isolated and mounted on rubber dampeners to reduce vibrations and noises; a [[hydrodynamic]] hull design reduces noise, [[infrared]] signature, and active [[sonar]] response. Its magnetic signature is counteracted by 27 independent [[electromagnets]], short-circuiting [[extremely low frequency]] (ELF) electrical fields. Various hull coatings reduce active sonar response, and the mast is coated with [[radar-absorbent material]]. Combined with the near-silent operation of the Stirling generator and slow-turning propeller to prevent [[cavitation]], the boats are very difficult to detect underwater, especially in their normal area of operations, the Baltic Sea.<ref name="kockums2"/>


[[File:Gotland class submarine.png|left|thumb|Drawing of the ships in the class]]
[[File:Gotland class submarine.png|left|thumb|Drawing of the ships in the class]]
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!Service
!Service
!Status
!Status
!Badge
!Coat of arms
|-
|-
||[[HSwMS Gotland (1995)|HSwMS ''Gotland'' (Gtd)]]
||[[HSwMS Gotland (1995)|HSwMS ''Gotland'' (Gtd)]]
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==Deployments==
==Deployments==
After being refitted and upgraded to sustain the higher temperatures of tropical water,<ref name="knews">[[Kockums]].se: [http://www.kockums.se/news/2000.html News 2000]</ref> HSwMS ''Halland'' took part in a multi-national exercise in the [[Mediterranean]] from September 16, 2000. Allegedly, there she remained undetected while still recording many of her friendly adversaries, attracting interest from the participating countries. In early November the same year, she participated in a [[NATO]] "blue-water" exercise in the [[Atlantic]]. There, she reportedly won a victory in a mock "duel" with Spanish naval units, and then the same in similar duel against a French SSN, a nuclear-powered attack submarine. She also "defeated" an American SSN, the [[USS Houston (SSN-713)|USS ''Houston'']].<ref name="knews" />
After being refitted and upgraded to sustain the higher temperatures of tropical water,<ref name="knews">[[Kockums]].se: [http://www.kockums.se/news/2000.html News 2000] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606154845/http://www.kockums.se/news/2000.html |date=2011-06-06 }}</ref> HSwMS ''Halland'' took part in a multi-national exercise in the [[Mediterranean]] from September 16, 2000. Allegedly, there she remained undetected while still recording many of her friendly adversaries, attracting interest from the participating countries. In early November of the same year, she participated in a [[NATO]] "blue-water" exercise in the [[Atlantic]]. There, she reportedly won a victory in a mock "duel" with Spanish naval units, and then the same in a similar duel against a French SSN, a nuclear-powered attack submarine. She also defeated an American SSN, the [[USS Houston (SSN-713)|USS ''Houston'']].<ref name="knews" />


===Secondment to United States Navy===
===Secondment to United States Navy===
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|caption2= HSwMS ''Gotland'' transits through San Diego Harbor with the {{sclass|Nimitz|aircraft carrier|1}} {{USS|Ronald Reagan}} following close behind during the "Sea and Air Parade" held as part of Fleet Week San Diego 2005.
|caption2= HSwMS ''Gotland'' transits through San Diego Harbor with the {{sclass|Nimitz|aircraft carrier|1}} {{USS|Ronald Reagan}} following close behind during the "Sea and Air Parade" held as part of Fleet Week San Diego 2005.
}}
}}
[[File:HMS Gotland - Ystad-2015.jpg|thumb|300px|''Gotland'' in the port of [[Ystad]] 2015]]


In 2004, the [[Government of Sweden|Swedish government]] received a request from the [[United States]] to lease HSwMS ''Gotland'' &ndash; Swedish-flagged, commanded and manned, for a duration of one year for use in [[antisubmarine warfare]] exercises. The Swedish government granted this request in October 2004, with both navies signing a [[memorandum of understanding]] on 21 March 2005.<ref>{{cite web | title=US Navy Leasing Swedish Gotland-Class Submarine | website=Deagel | url=http://www.deagel.com/news/US-Navy-Leasing-Swedish-Gotland-Class-Submarine_n000000395.aspx | access-date=2004-11-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=17621 |title=U.S., Swedish Navies Sign Agreement to Bilaterally Train on State-of-the-Art Sub |publisher=United States Navy |date=2005-03-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070819041151/http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=17621 |archive-date=2007-08-19 }}</ref> The lease was extended for another 12 months in 2006.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thelocal.se/article.php?ID=3574 |publisher=The Local |title=US Navy to continue hunt for Swedish sub |date=2006-04-18 |access-date=2006-07-21 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090329115136/http://www.thelocal.se/article.php?ID=3574 |archive-date=2009-03-29 }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.kockums.se/news/060613gotland.html |title=Gotland extends US stay for another year |publisher=Kockums AB |date=2006-06-13 |access-date=2006-07-21 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061001063127/http://www.kockums.se/News/060613gotland.html |archive-date=2006-10-01 }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.kockums.se/news/070509gotland.html|title=HMS Gotland's Stirling propulsion system basis of success in the USA|publisher=Kockums AB|date=2007-05-09}}</ref> In July 2007, HSwMS ''Gotland'' departed San Diego for Sweden.<ref>{{cite web | title=SSK Gotland Class (Type A19) Attack Submarine, Sweden | website=Naval Technology | url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/gotland/ | access-date=2008-04-06}}</ref>
In 2004, the [[Government of Sweden|Swedish government]] received a request from the [[United States]] to lease HSwMS ''Gotland'' &ndash; Swedish-flagged, commanded and manned, for one year for use in [[antisubmarine warfare]] exercises. The Swedish government granted this request in October 2004, with both navies signing a [[memorandum of understanding]] on 21 March 2005.<ref>{{cite web | title=US Navy Leasing Swedish Gotland-Class Submarine | website=Deagel | url=http://www.deagel.com/news/US-Navy-Leasing-Swedish-Gotland-Class-Submarine_n000000395.aspx | access-date=2004-11-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=17621 |title=U.S., Swedish Navies Sign Agreement to Bilaterally Train on State-of-the-Art Sub |publisher=United States Navy |date=2005-03-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070819041151/http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=17621 |archive-date=2007-08-19 }}</ref> The lease was extended for another 12 months in 2006.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thelocal.se/article.php?ID=3574 |publisher=The Local |title=US Navy to continue hunt for Swedish sub |date=2006-04-18 |access-date=2006-07-21 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090329115136/http://www.thelocal.se/article.php?ID=3574 |archive-date=2009-03-29 }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.kockums.se/news/060613gotland.html |title=Gotland extends US stay for another year |publisher=Kockums AB |date=2006-06-13 |access-date=2006-07-21 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061001063127/http://www.kockums.se/News/060613gotland.html |archive-date=2006-10-01 }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.kockums.se/news/070509gotland.html|title=HMS Gotland's Stirling propulsion system basis of success in the USA|publisher=Kockums AB|date=2007-05-09|access-date=2009-06-16|archive-date=2010-09-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100924182055/http://www.kockums.se/news/070509gotland.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> In July 2007, HSwMS ''Gotland'' departed San Diego for Sweden.<ref>{{cite web | title=SSK Gotland Class (Type A19) Attack Submarine, Sweden | website=Naval Technology | url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/gotland/ | access-date=2008-04-06}}</ref>


In 2005, HSwMS ''Gotland'' managed to snap several pictures of {{USS|Ronald Reagan}} during a [[Military exercise|wargaming]] exercise in the [[Pacific Ocean]], effectively "sinking" the aircraft carrier.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.knbc.com/news/10116514/detail.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071116120858/http://www.knbc.com/news/10116514/detail.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=2007-11-16 | publisher=KNBC | title=Pentagon: New Class Of Silent Submarines Poses Threat | date=2006-10-19 | access-date=2006-07-21}}</ref> The exercise was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the US fleet against [[diesel-electric submarine]]s, which some have noted as severely lacking.<ref>{{cite journal | last=Polmar | first=Norman |date=March 2006 | title=Back to the Future | journal=U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings | volume=132 | issue=3 | pages=22&ndash;23 | id=0041-798X}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=US Navy Struggles to Recapture, Keep ASW Proficiency | website=The Nav Log | url=http://navlog.org/asw_feb06.html | access-date=2008-04-06 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090202192615/http://navlog.org/asw_feb06.html | archive-date=2009-02-02 | url-status=dead }}</ref> In 2001, during the exercise ''JTFEX 01-2'' in the [[Caribbean Sea]], the [[Germany|German]] ''U24'' of the conventional [[Type 206 submarine|206 diesel-electric class]] "sank" the carrier [[USS Enterprise (CVN-65)|''Enterprise'']] by firing [[flare]]s and taking a photograph through its [[periscope]].<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.t-online.de/nachrichten/militaer-special/id_61572852/militaer-deutsches-u-boot-fordert-us-marine-heraus-.html | publisher=t-online | title=Deutsches U-Boot fordert US-Marine heraus | date=2013-01-06 | access-date=2020-12-18 | language=de}}</ref>
In 2005, HSwMS ''Gotland'' managed to snap several pictures of {{USS|Ronald Reagan}} during a [[Military exercise|wargaming]] exercise in the [[Pacific Ocean]], demonstrating that it was in a position to sink the aircraft carrier.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.knbc.com/news/10116514/detail.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071116120858/http://www.knbc.com/news/10116514/detail.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=2007-11-16 | publisher=KNBC | title=Pentagon: New Class Of Silent Submarines Poses Threat | date=2006-10-19 | access-date=2006-07-21}}</ref> The exercise was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the US fleet against [[diesel-electric submarine]]s, which some have noted as severely lacking.<ref>{{cite journal | last=Polmar | first=Norman |date=March 2006 | title=Back to the Future | journal=U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings | volume=132 | issue=3 | pages=22&ndash;23 | id=0041-798X}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=US Navy Struggles to Recapture, Keep ASW Proficiency | website=The Nav Log | url=http://navlog.org/asw_feb06.html | access-date=2008-04-06 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090202192615/http://navlog.org/asw_feb06.html | archive-date=2009-02-02 | url-status=dead }}</ref> In 2001, during the exercise ''JTFEX 01-2'' in the [[Caribbean Sea]], the [[Germany|German]] ''U24'' of the conventional [[Type 206 submarine|206 diesel-electric class]] "sank" the carrier [[USS Enterprise (CVN-65)|''Enterprise'']] by firing [[flare]]s and taking a photograph through its [[periscope]].<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.t-online.de/nachrichten/militaer-special/id_61572852/militaer-deutsches-u-boot-fordert-us-marine-heraus-.html | publisher=t-online | title=Deutsches U-Boot fordert US-Marine heraus | date=2013-01-06 | access-date=2020-12-18 | language=de}}</ref>


== Overhaul ==
== Overhaul ==


=== Initial discussions ===
=== Initial discussions ===
In March [[2013 in Sweden|2013]], Kockums received an initial order for an overhaul for two of the ''Gotland''-class submarines. The overhaul was expected to be completed by 2017. With these upgrades, the submarines would be able to remain in active duty until after 2025.<ref>{{cite web |first=Monica |last=Kleja |title=Kockums får stor ubåtsorder |language=sv |trans-title=Kockums gets big submarine orders |url=http://www.nyteknik.se/nyheter/fordon_motor/fartyg/article3553829.ece |website=[[Ny Teknik]] |date=2012-10-05 |access-date=2017-09-20}}</ref>
In March [[2013 in Sweden|2013]], Kockums received an initial order for an overhaul for two of the ''Gotland''-class submarines. The overhaul was expected to be completed by 2017. With these upgrades, the submarines would be able to remain in active duty until after 2025.<ref>{{cite web |first=Monica |last=Kleja |title=Kockums får stor ubåtsorder |language=sv |trans-title=Kockums gets big submarine orders |url=http://www.nyteknik.se/nyheter/fordon_motor/fartyg/article3553829.ece |website=[[Ny Teknik]] |date=2012-10-05 |access-date=2017-09-20 |archive-date=2016-03-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304031537/http://www.nyteknik.se/nyheter/fordon_motor/fartyg/article3553829.ece |url-status=dead }}</ref>
On 2 April [[2014 in Sweden|2014]], the Swedish defence minister, insisting on the importance of submarines to the security of Sweden, announced the Government's intent to upgrade two of the ''Gotland''-class vessels, as well as purchase two new "stealth" submarines of another type.<ref>{{cite news |first1=Mats |last1=Knutson |first2=Love |last2=Benigh |title=Regeringen stoppar planerad ubåtsaffär |language=sv |trans-title=The government stops the planned submarine business |url=http://www.svt.se/nyheter/sverige/regeringen-stoppar-planerade-ubatsaffaren-med-kockums |website=[[Sveriges Television|svt]] |date=2014-04-02 |access-date=2017-09-20}}</ref><nowiki/>
On 2 April [[2014 in Sweden|2014]], the Swedish defence minister, insisting on the importance of submarines to the security of Sweden, announced the Government's intent to upgrade two of the ''Gotland''-class vessels, as well as purchase two new "stealth" submarines of another type.<ref>{{cite news |first1=Mats |last1=Knutson |first2=Love |last2=Benigh |title=Regeringen stoppar planerad ubåtsaffär |language=sv |trans-title=The government stops the planned submarine business |url=http://www.svt.se/nyheter/sverige/regeringen-stoppar-planerade-ubatsaffaren-med-kockums |website=[[Sveriges Television|svt]] |date=2014-04-02 |access-date=2017-09-20}}</ref><nowiki/>


=== Mid-life upgrade contract===
=== Mid-life upgrade contract===
Negotiations concluded on 30 June 2015 with the signature of a contract between Sweden's [[Defence Materiel Administration (Sweden)|Defense Material Administration]] (FMV) and [[Kockums Naval Solutions|Saab Kockums]]. In addition to the construction of two new [[A26 submarine|Type 26 A SSKs]], the contract provides for a mid-life upgrade of [[HSwMS Gotland (1995)|HSwMS ''Gotland'']] and her sister ship [[HSwMS Uppland (Upd)|HSwMS ''Uppland'']], for SEK 2.1 billion. ''Gotland'' is expected to return to the FMV in late 2018 and ''Uppland'' in late 2019, following a series of platform and combat systems upgrades. ''Gotland'' returned to active duty in June 2018 after receiving modification for over 20 systems. Same systems will also be included on the new A26 submarines.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fmv.se/sv/Nyheter-och-press/Nyheter-fran-FMV/Sjosattning-av-modifierad-ubat/|title=Sjösättning av modifierad ubåt|first=Hans|last=Ivansson|website=www.fmv.se}}</ref> {{HSwMS|Uppland|Upd|6}} relaunched in June 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/06/second-gotland-class-submarine-hms-uppland-relaunched-following-mlu-by-saab/|title=Second Gotland-class Submarine HMS Uppland Relaunched following MLU by Saab|website=www.navalnews.com|date=21 June 2019}}</ref> and was delivered to the Navy in December 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://seawaves.com/?p=7860|title = Saab Delivers Modernized Gotland-class Submarine – SeaWaves Magazine}}</ref>
Negotiations concluded on 30 June 2015 with the signature of a contract between Sweden's [[Defence Materiel Administration (Sweden)|Defense Material Administration]] (FMV) and [[Kockums Naval Solutions|Saab Kockums]]. In addition to the construction of two new [[A26 submarine|Type 26 A SSKs]], the contract provides for a mid-life upgrade of [[HSwMS Gotland (1995)|HSwMS ''Gotland'']] and her sister ship [[HSwMS Uppland (Upd)|HSwMS ''Uppland'']], for SEK 2.1 billion. ''Gotland'' is expected to return to the FMV in late 2018 and ''Uppland'' in late 2019, following a series of platform and combat systems upgrades. ''Gotland'' returned to active duty in June 2018 after receiving modification for over 20 systems. Same systems will also be included on the new A26 submarines.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fmv.se/sv/Nyheter-och-press/Nyheter-fran-FMV/Sjosattning-av-modifierad-ubat/|title=Sjösättning av modifierad ubåt|first=Hans|last=Ivansson|website=www.fmv.se|access-date=2018-06-20|archive-date=2018-06-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621015902/http://www.fmv.se/sv/Nyheter-och-press/Nyheter-fran-FMV/Sjosattning-av-modifierad-ubat/|url-status=dead}}</ref> {{HSwMS|Uppland|Upd|6}} relaunched in June 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/06/second-gotland-class-submarine-hms-uppland-relaunched-following-mlu-by-saab/|title=Second Gotland-class Submarine HMS Uppland Relaunched following MLU by Saab|website=www.navalnews.com|date=21 June 2019}}</ref> and was delivered to the Navy in December 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://seawaves.com/?p=7860|title = Saab Delivers Modernized Gotland-class Submarine – SeaWaves Magazine}}</ref> In March 2022 FMV and SAAB signed a contract for MLU of HMS Halland<ref>{{cite press release |url=https://www.saab.com/newsroom/press-releases/2022/saab-signs-contract-for-mid-life-upgrade-of-the-third-gotland-class-submarine |title=Saab Signs Contract for Mid-Life Upgrade of the Third Gotland-class Submarine |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220318223321/https://www.saab.com/newsroom/press-releases/2022/saab-signs-contract-for-mid-life-upgrade-of-the-third-gotland-class-submarine |archive-date=2022-03-18 |url-status=bot: unknown |access-date=2022-03-19 }}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
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==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|2}}
{{Reflist|30em}}


==External links==
==External links==
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*[http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/gotland-class/ Official Kockums website on ''Gotland'' class submarines] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110425220545/http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/gotland-class/ |date=2011-04-25 }}
*[http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/gotland-class/ Official Kockums website on ''Gotland'' class submarines] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110425220545/http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/gotland-class/ |date=2011-04-25 }}
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20110425220601/http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/stirling-aip-system/ Kockum's AIP Stirling system]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20110425220601/http://www.kockums.se/en/products-services/submarines/stirling-aip-system/ Kockum's AIP Stirling system]
;Video links
*{{youtube|Khaa3y0i87s|NBC news report on the Gotland class}}
*{{youtube|Khaa3y0i87s|NBC news report on the Gotland class}}


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[[Category:Naval ships of Sweden]]
[[Category:Naval ships of Sweden]]
[[Category:Submarines of Sweden]]
[[Category:Submarines of Sweden]]
[[Category:1990s ships]]

Latest revision as of 19:53, 14 June 2024

HSwMS Gotland
Class overview
BuildersKockums
Operators Swedish Navy
Preceded byVästergötland class
Succeeded byBlekinge class
Built1992–1996
In commission1996–present
Planned3
Completed3
Active3
General characteristics
TypeSubmarine
Displacement
  • Surfaced: 1,494 tonnes (1,470 long tons)
  • Submerged: 1,599 tonnes (1,574 long tons)
Length60.4 m (198 ft 2 in)
Beam6.2 m (20 ft 4 in)
Draft5.6 m (18 ft 4 in)
Propulsion
  • 2 × Diesel-electric MTU engines
  • 2 × Kockums v4-275R Stirling AIP units
Speed
  • Surfaced: 11 knots (20 km/h)
  • Submerged: 20 knots (37 km/h) on batteries; 5 knots (9.3 km/h) on AIP
Complement
  • 18–22 officers
  • 6–10 ratings
Sensors and
processing systems		CSU 90-2 integrated sonar sensor suite
Armament
  • 4 × 533 mm (21.0 in) torpedo tubes
  • 2 × 400 mm (15.7 in) torpedo tubes
  • 48 × Externally mounted naval mines[1]

The Gotland-class submarines of the Swedish Navy are modern diesel-electric submarines, which were designed and built by the Kockums shipyard in Sweden. They are the first submarines in the world to feature a Stirling engine air-independent propulsion (AIP) system, which extends their underwater endurance from a few days to weeks.[2] This capability had previously only been available with nuclear-powered submarines.

Features

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As of 2008, the Gotland-class attack submarine is one of the most modern submarines of the Swedish Navy in service, mainly designed for submarine missions such as antiship/antisubmarine warfare, collecting of intelligence (communications intelligence (COMINT), electronic signals intelligence (ELINT)), forward surveillance, special operations, and mine-laying tasks.[2]

On the water surface, the submarine is powered by two sets of MTU engines. While submerged, the Kockums-built Stirling engine AIP system is used to drive a 75-kilowatt (101 shp) generator for either propulsion or charging the batteries. A Stirling engine is particularly well suited for a submarine because the engine is nearly silent and can use the surrounding seawater as a heat sink to increase efficiency. Submerged endurance is dependent on the amount of liquid oxygen stored onboard and is described as "weeks". The class is characterized by its low acoustic signatures, extreme shock resistance, and a competent combat system.[2]

Kockums touts extreme manoeuvrability for this class due to the hull design and a well-placed X rudder. The X rudder provides four control surfaces, along with two mounted on the sail, which enables sharp turns and the ability to operate very close to the seabed. Ship automation and computerized steering allow a single operator to steer the submarine in depth and course, which also results in a smaller crew complement, leading to good accommodation standards and low operating costs.[3]

The class has many features that enhance stealth, helping it to remain undetected. All shipboard machinery is isolated and mounted on rubber dampeners to reduce vibrations and noises; a hydrodynamic hull design reduces noise, infrared signature, and active sonar response. Its magnetic signature is counteracted by 27 independent electromagnets, short-circuiting extremely low frequency (ELF) electrical fields. Various hull coatings reduce active sonar response, and the mast is coated with radar-absorbent material. Combined with the near-silent operation of the Stirling generator and slow-turning propeller to prevent cavitation, the boats are very difficult to detect underwater, especially in their normal area of operations, the Baltic Sea.[3]

Drawing of the ships in the class

Units

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Ship name Laid down Launched Commissioned Service Status Badge
HSwMS Gotland (Gtd) 10 October 1992 2 February 1995 1996 1st Submarine Flotilla Active
HSwMS Uppland (Upd) 14 January 1994 8 February 1995 1996 1st Submarine Flotilla Active
HSwMS Halland (Hnd) 21 October 1994 27 September 1996 1996 1st Submarine Flotilla Active

Deployments

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After being refitted and upgraded to sustain the higher temperatures of tropical water,[4] HSwMS Halland took part in a multi-national exercise in the Mediterranean from September 16, 2000. Allegedly, there she remained undetected while still recording many of her friendly adversaries, attracting interest from the participating countries. In early November of the same year, she participated in a NATO "blue-water" exercise in the Atlantic. There, she reportedly won a victory in a mock "duel" with Spanish naval units, and then the same in a similar duel against a French SSN, a nuclear-powered attack submarine. She also defeated an American SSN, the USS Houston.[4]

Secondment to United States Navy

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HSwMS Gotland onboard MV Eide Transporter in San Diego
HSwMS Gotland transits through San Diego Harbor with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan following close behind during the "Sea and Air Parade" held as part of Fleet Week San Diego 2005.
Gotland in the port of Ystad 2015

In 2004, the Swedish government received a request from the United States to lease HSwMS Gotland – Swedish-flagged, commanded and manned, for one year for use in antisubmarine warfare exercises. The Swedish government granted this request in October 2004, with both navies signing a memorandum of understanding on 21 March 2005.[5][6] The lease was extended for another 12 months in 2006.[7][8][9] In July 2007, HSwMS Gotland departed San Diego for Sweden.[10]

In 2005, HSwMS Gotland managed to snap several pictures of USS Ronald Reagan during a wargaming exercise in the Pacific Ocean, demonstrating that it was in a position to sink the aircraft carrier.[11] The exercise was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the US fleet against diesel-electric submarines, which some have noted as severely lacking.[12][13] In 2001, during the exercise JTFEX 01-2 in the Caribbean Sea, the German U24 of the conventional 206 diesel-electric class "sank" the carrier Enterprise by firing flares and taking a photograph through its periscope.[14]

Overhaul

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Initial discussions

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In March 2013, Kockums received an initial order for an overhaul for two of the Gotland-class submarines. The overhaul was expected to be completed by 2017. With these upgrades, the submarines would be able to remain in active duty until after 2025.[15] On 2 April 2014, the Swedish defence minister, insisting on the importance of submarines to the security of Sweden, announced the Government's intent to upgrade two of the Gotland-class vessels, as well as purchase two new "stealth" submarines of another type.[16]

Mid-life upgrade contract

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Negotiations concluded on 30 June 2015 with the signature of a contract between Sweden's Defense Material Administration (FMV) and Saab Kockums. In addition to the construction of two new Type 26 A SSKs, the contract provides for a mid-life upgrade of HSwMS Gotland and her sister ship HSwMS Uppland, for SEK 2.1 billion. Gotland is expected to return to the FMV in late 2018 and Uppland in late 2019, following a series of platform and combat systems upgrades. Gotland returned to active duty in June 2018 after receiving modification for over 20 systems. Same systems will also be included on the new A26 submarines.[17] HSwMS Uppland relaunched in June 2019[18] and was delivered to the Navy in December 2020.[19] In March 2022 FMV and SAAB signed a contract for MLU of HMS Halland[20]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "SSK Gotland Class (Type A19), Sweden". naval-technology.com. Retrieved 2017-09-20.
  2. ^ a b c "The Gotland class submarine - submerged several weeks". Kockums. Archived from the original on 2011-04-25. Retrieved 2008-04-06.
  3. ^ a b "Kockums Promotional" (PDF). Naval Technology. Retrieved 2011-11-21.
  4. ^ a b Kockums.se: News 2000 Archived 2011-06-06 at the Wayback Machine
  5. ^ "US Navy Leasing Swedish Gotland-Class Submarine". Deagel. Retrieved 2004-11-05.
  6. ^ "U.S., Swedish Navies Sign Agreement to Bilaterally Train on State-of-the-Art Sub" (Press release). United States Navy. 2005-03-23. Archived from the original on 2007-08-19.
  7. ^ "US Navy to continue hunt for Swedish sub". The Local. 2006-04-18. Archived from the original on 2009-03-29. Retrieved 2006-07-21.
  8. ^ "Gotland extends US stay for another year" (Press release). Kockums AB. 2006-06-13. Archived from the original on 2006-10-01. Retrieved 2006-07-21.
  9. ^ "HMS Gotland's Stirling propulsion system basis of success in the USA" (Press release). Kockums AB. 2007-05-09. Archived from the original on 2010-09-24. Retrieved 2009-06-16.
  10. ^ "SSK Gotland Class (Type A19) Attack Submarine, Sweden". Naval Technology. Retrieved 2008-04-06.
  11. ^ "Pentagon: New Class Of Silent Submarines Poses Threat". KNBC. 2006-10-19. Archived from the original on 2007-11-16. Retrieved 2006-07-21.
  12. ^ Polmar, Norman (March 2006). "Back to the Future". U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings. 132 (3): 22–23. 0041-798X.
  13. ^ "US Navy Struggles to Recapture, Keep ASW Proficiency". The Nav Log. Archived from the original on 2009-02-02. Retrieved 2008-04-06.
  14. ^ "Deutsches U-Boot fordert US-Marine heraus" (in German). t-online. 2013-01-06. Retrieved 2020-12-18.
  15. ^ Kleja, Monica (2012-10-05). "Kockums får stor ubåtsorder" [Kockums gets big submarine orders]. Ny Teknik (in Swedish). Archived from the original on 2016-03-04. Retrieved 2017-09-20.
  16. ^ Knutson, Mats; Benigh, Love (2014-04-02). "Regeringen stoppar planerad ubåtsaffär" [The government stops the planned submarine business]. svt (in Swedish). Retrieved 2017-09-20.
  17. ^ Ivansson, Hans. "Sjösättning av modifierad ubåt". www.fmv.se. Archived from the original on 2018-06-21. Retrieved 2018-06-20.
  18. ^ "Second Gotland-class Submarine HMS Uppland Relaunched following MLU by Saab". www.navalnews.com. 21 June 2019.
  19. ^ "Saab Delivers Modernized Gotland-class Submarine – SeaWaves Magazine".
  20. ^ "Saab Signs Contract for Mid-Life Upgrade of the Third Gotland-class Submarine" (Press release). Archived from the original on 2022-03-18. Retrieved 2022-03-19.{{cite press release}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
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