Sweden chose certainty over Saab’s frigate vision

Saab Naval has expressed disappointment over Sweden’s decision to select French-built frigates for the Swedish Navy’s next surface combatant programme.

The Nordic defence group had partnered with UK-based Babcock to offer the jointly developed Arrowhead 120 frigate. Sweden instead selected Naval Group’s design, which is already in service with the French and Greek navies.

- I still believe we had the best product, Saab Naval production chief Thomas Persson told Defence Nordic affiliate publication Metal Supply.

- It met all the capability requirements set by the Swedish Navy. Everything was included in our proposal, so I believe we had the strongest offer, he said speakin at the Elmina producion fair.

Persson said the outcome ultimately reflected the maturity of the competing French platform.

- What they are saying is that the selected vessel is already in the water today, he said, referring to Naval Group’s existing frigate design already delivered to France and Greece.

Sweden recently decided to procure four frigates at an estimated cost of SEK 40 billion.

Although Saab Naval will not participate in construction of the ships’ hulls, Saab is expected to play a significant role in supplying combat systems, radar and other onboard technologies for the future frigates.

Despite losing the competition, Persson said the Arrowhead 120 proposal remains part of Saab Naval’s future export offering.

- We have developed our concept, and it remains available. It is something we can offer in the future as well.