Sweden could face ASW capability gap by slashing NH90
If the Swedish government approves current plans, retiring the NH90 could create an ASW and ASuW rotary-wing capability gap for the Nordic nation. (Photo: Swedish Armed Forces)
As Sweden is set to become a NATO member, its regional ASW and ASuW responsibilities will increase. Phasing out the NH90 gradually will win some time for Stockholm, but soon it will have to make a decision on a new helicopter capability.
The Swedish Armed Forces' Supreme Commander Gen Micael Bydén announced last week that the country was cancelling its purchase agreement of NH90 maritime helicopters due to problems with the availability of the NHIndustries-designed rotorcraft.
The ruling on the NH90 came as part of a wider defence modernisation and procurement plan.
The announcement was no surprise, however, as Maj Gen Carl-Johan Edstrom, chief of the Swedish Air Force, said at a 17 July press briefing that Sweden will make a decision this autumn whether to continue to operate the NH90 or ‘go the way of Norway’ and turn to another platform.
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Air Warfare
-
![Norway to contribute F-35s and NASAMS air defence to Poland]()
Norway to contribute F-35s and NASAMS air defence to Poland
The Scandinavian country will help to safeguard Polish airspace and ensure aid to Ukraine reaches its destination.
-
![Details revealed on new UAS munition destined for Ukraine]()
Details revealed on new UAS munition destined for Ukraine
Helsing’s HX-2 has a weight of 12kg and a range of 100km. It is planned to enter service in Ukraine in 2025.
-
![Netherlands deploys F-35s for air policing in Estonia]()
Netherlands deploys F-35s for air policing in Estonia
The Dutch F-35s will replace the German Eurofighter Typhoons stationed in Latvia.
-
![US to deploy F-35As to Japan base by early 2026]()
US to deploy F-35As to Japan base by early 2026
The 48 F-35A aircraft are set to replace the 36 F-16s as part of the US Department of Defense’s plans to upgrade its aircraft across Japan.
-
![Babcock and KAI to collaborate on training and air base support]()
Babcock and KAI to collaborate on training and air base support
The two companies will focus on military training, support and engineering opportunities across central, eastern and southern Europe.
-
![NSPA and Royal Netherlands Air Force sign LoI on MRTT training integration]()
NSPA and Royal Netherlands Air Force sign LoI on MRTT training integration
The Letter of Intent (LoI) will allow for the integration of training of the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tank Transport (MRTT) fleet between the the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) and other groups.
