Germany to decide between Finnish Jehu and Swedish CB90 combat boats for navy purchase
Germany's parliament will vote on whether to buy Finnish Jehu or Swedish CB90 combat vessels for its naval forces.
German lawmakers are expected to resolve the choice of combat boat for the navy by next Wednesday, with discussions in the Bundestag's defence and budget committees. The competition pits Finland's Marine Alutech Jehu class against Sweden's Saab CB90, both proven in NATO or partner nations and meeting Germany's requirement for an operational, multi-purpose vessel. The Seebataillon plans to acquire up to fifteen boats for tasks such as marine infantry transport, amphibious assaults, evacuations, patrols and harbour defence.
The procurement programme began in 2017, with the formal tender opening only in summer 2023. Jehu, roughly 20 metres long, can carry 25 soldiers, while the CB90, a 1980s design, seats about twenty and has been exported to around ten countries. The outcome could also boost interest in Marine Alutech's broader CFMAC project.
Why it matters
The choice will shape Germany's naval capabilities and affect defence industry partners in Finland and Sweden.
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