SOCIETY
Sweden invests over five billion kroner in strengthened air defense. In cooperation with four other countries, a total of 1,000 robots for the Patriot air defense system are being purchased, according to a press release from the government.
The total order value is approximately SEK 60 billion. The other countries are Germany, the Netherlands, Romania and Spain.
The contract also includes updated components, test equipment and spare parts to support future maintenance in Europe.
According to the government, the joint procurement reduces the cost per robot.
In addition, the defense industrial base in Europe is being strengthened. This is because a new production line for Patriot robots is to be built in Germany. Previously, there were only production facilities for the system in the United States.
Eight European nations now use the Patriot for defense against cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and aircraft of various types.
– The acquisition means that we strengthen the ability and endurance within the Swedish air defense and at the same time contribute to the joint air defense capability within NATO and in Europe, says Jonas Lotsne, head of FMV’s area of operations Army materiel in a press release.
Source: www.nyteknik.se
