In a significant move for Sweden’s defence industry, Saab has recently received a string of major orders from European nations, reinforcing its position as a global leader in defence technology. These contracts not only highlight the growing demand for cutting-edge defence systems but also underscore the importance of strengthening security in the Baltic and wider European regions.
A Strategic Win with France
As we reported earlier, in a landmark development, France signed a contract on Tuesday for the acquisition of two GlobalEye airborne reconnaissance systems from Saab. This deal, valued at SEK 12.3 billion, has been hailed as a strategic boost for Saab, marking a pivotal moment for the Swedish defence giant. The GlobalEye system, renowned for its advanced radar and surveillance capabilities, is designed to provide real-time intelligence and enhance situational awareness across vast operational areas. The system’s versatility allows it to detect and track a wide range of airborne and surface threats, making it an invaluable asset for national defence and multinational military operations.
This deal is particularly significant for Saab, as it positions the company to expand its footprint in the high-demand sector of advanced reconnaissance aircraft. The sale to France, a key player in European and global defence, strengthens Saab’s reputation and opens the door for further partnerships across NATO and beyond.
The announcement of this deal has already had an impact on Saab’s stock market performance, with its share price seeing a 2.7% increase on the last trading day of 2025, reflecting investor confidence in Saab’s growing pipeline of defence contracts.
Lithuania Strengthens Its Defence Arsenal
In addition to the French deal, Saab has also secured another major order from Lithuania, further solidifying its presence in the Baltic region. Lithuania has placed an order worth SEK 3 billion for the Bolide missiles, designed for the RBS 70 NG short-range air defence system. This order, which is part of a broader framework agreement with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration and the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence, will see deliveries between 2028 and 2032.
The decision to upgrade its air defence capabilities comes as Lithuania, along with its Baltic neighbours, seeks to bolster its defence posture amid growing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe. The Bolide missile system offers enhanced precision and a broader operational range, providing Lithuania with a more robust shield against aerial threats.
This order adds to Lithuania’s previous commitment to Saab, as on December 23, 2025, Saab confirmed that Lithuania had also placed an order for the AT4 anti-tank rounds and ammunition for the Carl-Gustaf M4. These investments are part of Lithuania’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military forces and ensure that it remains well-equipped to defend its sovereignty in a rapidly changing security environment.
Europe’s Growing Investment in Defence
These contracts come at a time when European nations are significantly increasing their defence budgets and modernising their military capabilities. With geopolitical tensions rising, particularly with Russia’s ongoing actions in Ukraine, European nations are prioritising the strengthening of their air defence, surveillance, and anti-tank capabilities.
In the context of NATO’s strategic objectives, the increasing demand for advanced systems like the GlobalEye and RBS 70 NG is a clear reflection of the broader shift towards enhancing collective defence capabilities across the continent. Saab’s continued success in securing such contracts highlights not only its technological leadership but also the broader trend of increased defence spending in Europe.
Looking forward, Saab’s strategic positioning in the European defence market is promising. The company has demonstrated its capacity to secure large-scale contracts with key NATO and European partners, which could pave the way for even more lucrative deals in the coming years. As military needs evolve, Saab’s ability to offer innovative and versatile solutions will be crucial in maintaining its competitive edge.
In the next issue of Nordic Business Journal, we will delve deeper into the broader implications of Europe’s defence spending surge and examine how Sweden’s defence sector, led by companies like Saab, is positioning itself for the future. We will explore the emerging trends in military technology, focusing on the role of artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and the integration of new technologies in defence operations.
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