The Swedish assault craft that can stop on a dime at forty knots

Cultures · Published 10 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The CB90 is a masterclass in naval agility, capable of extreme high-speed maneuvers and near-instant stops. Originally engineered for the Swedish Navy to deploy amphibious infantry, this versatile platform has been adopted by nations worldwide for everything from peacekeeping and search-and-rescue to specialized riverine command and control operations.

Developed by Dockstavarvet, the CB90—or Stridsbåt 90 H—entered service in 1990. Its design prioritizes speed and precision, utilizing twin water jets and underwater control surfaces that function similarly to a submarine's diving planes. This configuration allows the craft to reach speeds of 40 knots and execute sharp turns, while its shallow draught enables operations in coastal waters that would be inaccessible to larger vessels. The boat is designed to carry a half platoon of 18 fully equipped soldiers, a capacity that defines its name.

The platform's adaptability has led to numerous specialized variants. The HS model, introduced in 2002, features armour and CBRN protection for international peacekeeping, while others serve as mobile command centers or even floating ambulances. Norway’s version, the SB90N, includes a motorized stern anchor to help the boat pull itself off the ground if it runs aground, alongside upgraded navigation systems. These modifications demonstrate how a single hull design can be tailored to meet vastly different operational requirements, from tropical deployments to the harsh conditions of the Stockholm archipelago.

While the CB90 is celebrated for its performance, its history includes notable incidents. The craft has been involved in high-speed collisions, groundings, and even a 2016 encounter in the Persian Gulf where two U.S. Navy riverine command boats were briefly taken into custody by Iranian forces after a mechanical breakdown. Despite these challenges, the boat remains a staple of modern maritime forces. Its influence is so significant that other nations have sought to replicate its capabilities, as seen with the Russian Raptor-class patrol boats, which bear a striking visual resemblance to the Swedish original, though no formal licensing link exists.

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