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France-Sweden naval defense cooperation

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2026-10-05 06:53 UTC → 2026-10-07 20:33 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Sweden and France have finalized a defense agreement for the purchase of four French-made FDI-type frigates, valued at approximately 4.3 billion euros. The vessels, to be designated as the Luleå class in Swedish service, will be manufactured by Naval Group. The agreement, signed in Stockholm by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and French President Emmanuel Macron, integrates Swedish technology from Saab, including the RBS 15 anti-ship missile system, Giraffe 1X radar, and Trackfire close-in defense systems. The ships are also designed to provide protection against torpedoes and ballistic missiles. Beyond the specific procurement of the four vessels, the two nations signed a broader bilateral framework agreement intended to enhance long-term strategic, operational, and industrial defense cooperation. This acquisition is intended to triple Sweden’s maritime anti-aircraft defense capabilities and secure vital shipping lanes in the Baltic Sea region. The procurement is part of Sweden’s broader rearmament efforts following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine and its 2024 accession to NATO. On August 31, 2026, Naval Group officially signed the contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV). Following the signing, Naval Group commenced construction of the first Luleå-class frigate, HSwMS Luleå, with a steel-cutting ceremony held on October 1, 2026, at the shipyard in Lorient, France. The ~~ceremony was attended by Rear-Admiral Fredrik Lindén of the FMV and Sweden’s Ambassador to France, Caroline Vicini. The~~ first vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2030, with subsequent vessels expected in 2032, 2033, and 2034. However, the delivery timeline faces potential risks regarding essential weaponry. As of October 2026, no orders have been placed for the Aster B1NT air defense missiles required for the vessels. Stefano Bertuzzi, head of marine systems at MBDA, noted that while Sweden has requested this specific version for its ballistic missile interception capabilities, the missile is so new that mass production is not expected to begin until late next year.

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