FIA 2026: Post-Gripen strategy takes shape as Sweden accelerates current fleet
The Gripen E forms a key part of Sweden’s evolving combat air strategy. (Photo: Saab)
Major General Jonas Wikman said Sweden had accelerated procurement of Taurus missiles and Gripen E capability as its air force adjusts to NATO membership and rethinks its future combat air strategy.
Sweden has brought forward the introduction of several capabilities as it reworks its air power concept around NATO membership, the Commander of the Swedish Air Force, Maj Gen Jonas Wikman, said at a Swedish Air Force Fan Club (SAFF) reception at the Corinthia Hotel in London on 19 July 2026.
The event, held in the Swedish Air Force’s centenary year and SAFF’s 60th anniversary, took place 24 hours ahead of the Farnborough International Airshow. Wikman used the gathering to set out how Sweden’s two years of NATO membership had reshaped its procurement priorities, moving the country from a doctrine built
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Country-focused updates
-
![US Army set to receive first ISV-U-mounted Scorpion Light mortar]()
US Army set to receive first ISV-U-mounted Scorpion Light mortar
Global Military Products will begin deliveries next week under a US$12.9 million agreement covering digitally enabled 81mm mortar systems, vehicle integration and army fire-control technology.
-
![US Army reaches out to industry for M109 replacement in a deal worth up to $8 billion]()
US Army reaches out to industry for M109 replacement in a deal worth up to $8 billion
The US has tried several times to replace the M109 Paladin self-propelled howitzer, a requirement which Shephard forecasts could be for as many as 670 platforms and worth as much as US$8 billion.
-
![German Navy’s Israeli missile test points to deepening defence-industrial ties]()
German Navy’s Israeli missile test points to deepening defence-industrial ties
The test-firing of an Israel Aerospace Industries LORA ballistic missile from a German vessel highlights the Bundeswehr’s focus on speed to capability as it trials Israel’s operationally proven technology.
-
![Armada 2050: can Spain deliver its naval transformation?]()
Armada 2050: can Spain deliver its naval transformation?
Spain’s naval modernisation drive is moving from concept to contracts, with RfIs and RfPs expected before the end of the decade, despite second-batch frigate and submarine numbers remaining undecided.
