STOCKHOLM: Sweden has signed an order for four frigates from French defence company Naval Group.
The deal aims to strengthen Sweden’s naval and air defence capabilities.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and French President Emmanuel Macron attended the signing ceremony in Stockholm on Monday.
Sweden Expands Military Capabilities
Sweden joined NATO as its newest member after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The war pushed Sweden to end its long-standing policy of military non-alignment.
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Since then, Stockholm has increased efforts to strengthen its armed forces.
The new frigates will form an important part of that defence expansion.
$4 Billion Defence Deal
Sweden announced the planned purchase from Naval Group in May.
The deal is worth about $4 billion.
The four new ships will become the largest vessels in the Swedish Navy.
Sweden expects to receive the first frigate in 2030.
The new vessels will also help Sweden expand its air defence capacity.
Officials expect the deal to triple Sweden’s air defence capacity, according to the announcement.
Macron Highlights European Defence
President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the agreement.
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He said cooperation between France and Sweden shows that European countries can strengthen their sovereignty together.
Macron also said the Swedish order would strengthen Europe’s defence industry and technology base.
He argued that European countries must take greater responsibility for their own security.
The French president also stressed the importance of strengthening NATO’s European pillar.
Europe Increases Defence Spending
Sweden is not alone in expanding its defence capabilities.
European governments have increased military spending since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Concerns over long-term US support have also encouraged European countries to invest more in defence.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly urged NATO members to increase their defence spending.
As a result, several European countries are reviewing their military capabilities and defence plans.
New Frigates to Strengthen Swedish Navy
The four frigates will give Sweden a stronger naval presence.
They will also improve the country’s ability to defend its waters and support NATO operations.
The vessels will become the largest ships operated by the Swedish Navy.
Their delivery will begin in 2030.
The order marks another major step in Sweden’s effort to strengthen national and European defence.
