NEWTOWN, Conn. -- The 9LV Mk4 combat management system (CMS), produced by Saab, and its little sibling, the 9LV Mk4 Compact, are doing well in the marketplace, especially among smaller navies. The 9LV Mk4 is expected to continue selling thanks to its adaptability to the smaller offshore patrol vessels and fast attack craft that are the mainstay of many small coastal navies. In fact, this version has proven itself so well that the Royal Thai Navy is upgrading its aircraft carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet with the 9LV Mk4, a move that could open the market to large warships as well.
Unfortunately, Indonesia's decision to halt to the acquisition of the Klewang-class Fast Missile Trimaran patrol vessel after one ship has slightly dampened the market for the 9LV Mk4 CMS, as the entire class (of at least four vessels) was to be equipped with the system. Still, over the next several years, one can expect the odd sale here and there.