Stockholm, Sweden – The Swedish government has entered into two agreements worth over SEK 9 billion (approximately USD 1.1 billion) for the procurement of artillery ammunition, marking one of the largest investments in defence capabilities since the 1980s.
According to Minister for Defence Pål Jonson, the order "strengthen[s] Sweden's defence capability and is a vital investment in the security of Sweden and NATO." The aim is to enhance the defence's resilience and ensure access to critical materiel, with deliveries set to commence in 2025 and continue in the coming years.
The agreements, signed with ammunition manufacturers Nammo and Rheinmetall Denel Munition, are expected to significantly increase the long-term supply of artillery ammunition. The orders include a substantial amount of artillery shells for the Archer system, a key component of Sweden's military arsenal.
The agreement with Rheinmetall Denel Munition is worth over SEK 4 billion and includes an order of artillery shells and propellant powder for the Archer system. Deliveries are set to take place between 2025 and 2027, and will support the system's operational capabilities in international operations.
The deal with Nammo represents a significant collaboration between the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration and the European Commission to increase production capacity of artillery ammunition in Sweden and the Nordics. The initial billion-kronor order for deliveries of Nammo's 155 mm high-explosive extended range shell will enable a shooting range of up to 40 kilometres.
The international order is timely, as the global market has faced shortages of artillery ammunition since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Key Highlights:
– SEK 9 billion worth of artillery ammunition orders signed with Nammo and Rheinmetall Denel Munition.
– Deliveries set to commence in 2025 and continue in the coming years.
– Agreement aims to strengthen Sweden's defence capability and ensure access to critical materiel.
– Increased long-term supply of artillery ammunition expected.
In conclusion, the Swedish government's record-breaking order for artillery ammunition represents a significant investment in the country's defence capabilities and its commitment to international security. The agreements with Nammo and Rheinmetall Denel Munition are expected to support Sweden's operational capabilities and enhance its resilience in the face of emerging challenges.