Stockholm prepares to choose between three European frigate proposals
On 13 April, Navantia pointed to the guarantee of delivering two ALFA 4000 units in 2030 and the other two in 2031. (Photo: Navantia)
Sweden’s Luleå frigate programme is gathering momentum, with a Saab and Babcock joint proposal and Navantia and Naval Group each presenting distinct propositions for a quartet of warships.
With a decision from Stockholm anticipated in 2026, three European contenders – Saab in partnership with the UK’s Babcock, Spain’s Navantia and France’s Naval Group – are each proposing frigate designs that reflect markedly different platform sizes, combat system architecture and industrial cooperation.
Sweden is preparing to select a design for four new multi‑role frigates under its Luleå programme, providing a higher-end complement to the Visby-class corvettes. First deliveries are targeted around 2030 with a contract decision expected this year.
The Swedish Ministry of Defence (MoD) framed the programme in operational terms. A spokesperson told Shephard that the
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