Sweden Expands Naval Power After Joining NATO

Sweden is set to significantly strengthen its naval defense capabilities. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson’s government has announced the purchase of four modern frigates from the French company Naval Group in a deal worth around €3.7bn.

The move represents the country’s largest military investment since the 1980s and marks another major step following Sweden’s accession to NATO in 2024.

The new FDI-class frigates are expected to triple Sweden’s air defense capabilities and reinforce security in the Baltic Sea, which Stockholm considers increasingly vulnerable following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The first vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2030 and the ships are expected to remain in service for around 40 years.

The Swedish government has also insisted that the frigates incorporate domestic weapons systems, including technology developed by Saab.

Naval Group won the contract ahead of competitors from Britain and Spain. At the same time, Stockholm is continuing to modernize its submarine fleet and plans to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP before NATO’s target deadline.

(reuters, max)