Sweden Nears Decision in Billion-Kronor Frigate Deal Amid French and Spanish Competition

Sweden is approaching a critical decision on a major defense procurement involving the acquisition of four new frigates estimated to cost between 40 and 60 billion kronor. This high-stakes competition features French and Spanish naval bids as they seek to supply capabilities that will significantly enhance Sweden's maritime defense.

The French Naval Group has presented its FDI frigate, a model already in production for both Greece and France, with the ship Amiral Ronarc’h currently undergoing rigorous tests in Gothenburg under demanding winter conditions. Spain offers the Almirante Juan de Borbón frigate, which remains in the design phase, highlighting key differences in development progress between the rivals.

According to Johan Granlund, lecturer at the Swedish Defence University, the procurement represents an enormous investment for Sweden given the size and sophistication of the vessels. Defense Minister Pål Jonson underscored the strategic importance of boosting Sweden’s air defense capabilities, especially against missile threats, with the new frigates designed to be larger and more capable than the existing Visby corvettes. Enhanced air defense systems and improved submarine hunting functionalities will enable extended operations at sea to safeguard Swedish interests.

Political ties are also influencing the procurement process. Sweden maintains closer defense relationships with France and the UK than with Spain, a factor that could affect the final decision. French Ambassador Thierry Carlier emphasized the necessity for independent defense industries and stressed the value of Franco-Swedish collaboration in the increasingly tense geopolitical environment.

The planned vessels will be named after Swedish coastal cities, with the first ship to be called HMS Luleå. The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has been managing this extensive procurement since 2021 and anticipates a decision by spring 2024, setting the stage for a significant leap forward in Sweden’s naval defense capabilities.