France and Sweden look to boost European sovereignty through stronger defence ties
French President Emmanuel Macron is visiting Sweden on August 31. The aim of the trip is to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries. Boosting defence ties is expected to top the agenda, as the war in Ukraine continues and the threat from Russia persists. The newest member of NATO has also expressed interest in joining France's nuclear deterrence initiative.
French President Emmanuel Macron and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson signed agreements Monday to supply Sweden with four modern frigates. This move bolsters the Baltic Sea region's NATO defense, a strategically important area where Russia operates key shipping lanes and airspace. The agreements were made during Macron's visit to Sweden, as he pushes for greater European military autonomy to lessen dependence on the United States.
The U.S. administration recently urged NATO allies to demonstrate increased defense capabilities as Washington focuses on security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
The frigates will serve as platforms providing long-range capabilities at sea and protection against ballistic missiles, according to Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. The war in Ukraine highlighted the necessity of defending against such missiles. Under the €4.3 billion ($5 billion) contract, France will also supply weapons, equipment, and training for the warships, which can carry air-defense interceptors, torpedoes, and long-range cruise missiles, according to French officials. France's Naval Group shipbuilder is set to deliver the first vessel in 2030.
Macron emphasized a "major strategic cooperation" between France and Sweden, stating that the agreements strengthen European defense industrial and technological bases.
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