The French defence company Naval Group has signed a deal with the Swedish Royal Navy. The deal, the signing of which was marked by the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, covers the procurement of four frigates for defence and intervention. The deal was signed by the chief executive of the Swedish agency (FMV) Mikael Granholm and the French company's chief executive, formalising the collaboration on the construction of these complex warships. Although the exact cost of the deal was not immediately published, it represents a significant step in the modernisation of the Swedish armed forces, with the first frigate in the series scheduled for delivery in 2030.
Alongside the simultaneous signing with Sweden, the French company Naval Group has made an offer to Croatia for the construction of two stem ships. This project, which is aimed at the needs of the Croatian Navy, involves production in a local environment, specifically at the 3 May shipyard in Rijeka. The particularity of this project lies in the deep integration of domestic capacity, with a close collaboration with the Croatian company Iskra Group foreseen. This model of business not only provides equipment but also promotes the development of the domestic sector.
According to the announcements, the first frigate in this series, intended for the Croatian market, should be handed over to service within three years of the start of construction. The price of these specific vessels is not fixed, but depends on the level of equipment agreed for each individual case. The key element of the offer is a comprehensive system, including anti-ship and anti-submarine action, and advanced air defence, which ensures that the Croatian warships meet the security standards and defence needs of the state.
