Sweden Signs €4.3 Billion Frigate Deal With France

The Government of Sweden signed a €4.3 billion ($5 billion) contract with France on Monday to acquire four defense and intervention frigates. The agreement, signed onboard the French frigate Amiral Ronarc’h in Stockholm harbor, was attended by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Sweden selected the French shipbuilder Naval Group SA in May, choosing the firm over competing bids from the United Kingdom and Spain because the vessels are already in production. The warships are scheduled for delivery beginning in 2030.

Prime Minister Kristersson stated that the frigates are a major investment in maritime security for decades to come. He noted that the vessels will allow Sweden to protect military and civilian sea lines of communication, keep vital transport routes open, and strengthen the nation's ability to contribute to NATO operations.