Sweden signs $4 billion frigate deal with France to bolster NATO defences
Sweden orders four Naval Group frigates from France in a $4 billion deal to triple its air defence capacity, with delivery expected by 2030.
Sweden has formally signed an order for four advanced frigates from French shipbuilder Naval Group, in a ceremony held in Stockholm on Monday. The event was attended by French President Emmanuel Macron and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, underscoring the deepening defence ties between the two nations.
The deal, valued at approximately $4 billion, was first announced in May and is set to triple Sweden's air defence capability. The new vessels will be the largest in the Swedish navy, with the first delivery expected in 2030.
Sweden, which became NATO's newest member, is accelerating its military modernisation following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which led the country to abandon its long-standing policy of neutrality. European governments have also been increasing defence spending amid pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump and growing doubts about the reliability of American support.
Speaking at the ceremony, Macron said the order "strengthens the industrial and technological basis of European defence at a time when Europeans must take greater responsibility for their own security and consolidate NATO's European pillar." He added that France and Sweden, both EU and NATO members, demonstrate that "European sovereignty is being built together."
The frigate order marks a significant step in Sweden's efforts to rebuild its armed forces and enhance its role within the NATO alliance.