Sweden to Decide on New Frigate Design by 2026, Eyes GlobalEye Sale to France

Sweden is targeting early 2026 for selecting a design partner for four new Luleå-class frigates, with France emerging as a leading contender. Defence Minister Pål Jonson confirmed the ambitious timeline during talks with French counterpart Catherine Vautrin in Stockholm, with deliveries planned for 2030-2035. The significantly larger surface combatants will feature advanced air-defense systems and NATO-compatible technology. France’s Naval Group is offering its FDI-class frigates, while other bidders including Saab, Babcock, and Navantia are expected. Separately, discussions continue on France’s potential purchase of Saab’s GlobalEye airborne early-warning aircraft, signaling deepening Franco-Swedish defense cooperation.