Sweden is progressing toward establishing in-country maintenance capabilities for its next-generation frigates following a strategic partnership between Naval Group and Oresund Drydocks AB. The collaboration will support the future Defense and Intervention Frigate (FDI) fleet and aims to ensure that sustainment and servicing activities are performed domestically once deliveries begin, potentially by 2030. Under the agreement, both companies will cooperate on comprehensive lifecycle services, including inspection, repair, modernization, and technical support. The initiative emphasizes transferring technical expertise and operational knowledge to Sweden’s maritime industry, strengthening national self-reliance and long-term fleet availability. By developing local competencies, Sweden seeks to reinforce its defense industrial infrastructure while maintaining high operational readiness. According to Naval Group leadership, the partnership is structured to encourage innovation, generate high-skilled employment, and consolidate Sweden’s strategic sovereignty over its frigate assets. Technology and capability transfers are central to building sustainable domestic support structures capable of meeting evolving naval requirements. This move aligns with Naval Group’s broader pattern of expanding local partnerships worldwide. In 2025, the firm formalized cooperation with Westcon Naval Shipyard to enhance Norway’s frigate support capabilities. The company also strengthened ties with Greek industry and the University of Patras in 2024 to facilitate research and sustainment collaboration. Beyond Europe, its subsidiary Naval Group Arabia, based in Riyadh, continues to promote local industrial growth and fleet support initiatives consistent with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 defense industrial development strategy.
