Decision on negotiations with France on Luleå-class frigates for air defence role

The procurement of new surface combat vessels was included as an important part of both the 2020 defence bill and the defence bill adopted in December 2024. The latter states that the procurement process is to begin during the 2025–2030 defence planning period. 

“When the world is a turbulent and dangerous place, it’s important we make sure that our own house is in order. That means protecting Sweden’s borders, population and safeguarding Swedish interests. This is one of Sweden’s largest defence investments since the Gripen fighter jet in the 1980s. Compared to today, it represents a tripling of our air defence capabilities. That tells you something of the significance of this decision and what it means for Swedish maritime security, but also for the security of all Swedes, says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. 

“These new surface combat vessels will triple Sweden’s air defence capabilities and represent a major upgrade for the Swedish Navy,” says Minister for Defence Pål Jonson. 

Time is of the essence, and France has presented a balanced and realistic option. Delivery timelines and reliability in delivering a complete ship system with integrated air defence capability have weighed heavily in the Government’s assessment. This is necessary in light of the current security situation facing Sweden. The Government has determined that the procurement process must focus on a fully developed vessel programme that is already in production in order to minimise the delivery time. 

Developments in the international security environment underline the importance of advanced air defence capabilities to Sweden’s security, and as a key component of both NATO’s and the Swedish Armed Forces’ operational capability.  Collectively, the frigates will provide an important contribution to NATO’s integrated air and missile defence capability. 

The ships will be equipped with several subsystems from Swedish suppliers. From Saab, this includes the Saab lightweight Torpedo, the RBS 15 anti-ship missile system, Giraffe 1X surveillance radar and the Trackfire Remote Weapon Station. From BAE Systems Bofors, this includes 57 mm and 40 mm multi-target Naval Gun Systems. 

This is the first step of an extensive process. Once negotiations have been concluded, an order may be placed.