Sweden to Buy Four Frigates from France's Naval Group

Sweden will purchase four new frigates for its navy from France's Naval Group, government officials announced Tuesday. The vessels will be based on Naval Group's FDI design and will incorporate a mix of Swedish and French weapons systems, including the ABM-capable Aster 30.

Kristersson said the purchase represents one of the largest Swedish defense investments since the Gripen fighter jet was introduced in the 1980s. "This is one of the largest Swedish defense investments since the Gripen fighter jet was introduced in the 1980s," Kristersson told a press conference.

Defense Minister Pal Jonson said France was selected for its ability to make a quick delivery and for offering a proven system with air defense capabilities. "It is a tripling of Sweden's air defense capability compared with today," Kristersson said.

The government evaluated offers from the UK's Babcock together with Sweden's own Saab and Spain's Navantia before selecting Naval Group. France had said it could deliver a fully equipped frigate as early as 2030. Deliveries of the vessels are expected to begin in 2030, with the final price depending on the armaments and equipment included.

When asked for a ballpark figure, Jonson said the average price was expected at just over 10 billion kronor ($1.1 billion) each. The deal marks a success for Naval Group after neighboring Norway opted for British-built frigates last year.