FDI-class vessels will help Stockholm strengthen its missile defense capabilities
Sweden has signed a contract with France to procure four modern defense and intervention frigates. The 4.3 billion euro deal aims to enhance the country's maritime security and its protection against ballistic missiles. This was reported by Ukrinform, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced the signing of the intergovernmental defense contract during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Stockholm. Delivery of the first of the four vessels is scheduled by 2030.
Investments in maritime security
According to the head of the Swedish government, purchasing FDI-class frigates is a strategic investment in national defense and a contribution to NATO’s collective security. The vessels’ primary function will be patrolling maritime communication lines and providing protection against ballistic threats. Kristersson noted that the experience of Ukraine highlighted the critical importance of having systems capable of countering this type of weaponry.
Deepening defense cooperation
In addition to the warship acquisition, the parties discussed integrating European deterrence systems. Since February, Sweden and other European states have been consulting on how French nuclear forces might form the basis for closer cooperation and strengthened deterrence. Stockholm views France’s openness to these forms of engagement as highly positive.
Bilateral cooperation also extends to providing assistance to Ukraine in the air domain. This is seen as an essential component of efforts to bolster Europe’s defense capabilities amidst the current security environment.
Illustrative photo: franek2 / CC BY-SA 3.0
Read also: Two-seat fighter Gripen F completes its first flight
