Sweden Approves $727-Million HIMARS Procurement
The Swedish government has authorized the Swedish Armed Forces to procure the US-made M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) for an estimated 7 billion Swedish kronor ($727 million).
The first HIMARS deliveries are scheduled for 2027. The systems are intended to complement Sweden’s conventional artillery capabilities, including the Archer self-propelled howitzer.
Under Sweden’s Defence Resolution 2025–2030, adopted amid the country’s NATO accession and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Swedish Army will establish two additional artillery battalions and an additional rocket-artillery unit.
Stockholm ordered 48 Archer 8×8 systems from BAE Systems in September 2023, followed by an additional order for 18 howitzers in 2025. Meanwhile, Sweden has upgraded its 24 Archer 6×6 systems to the “Version C” standard.
The number of HIMARS systems to be procured has not been disclosed. However, Sweden previously requested 20 HIMARS launchers along with associated munitions and equipment. The US State Department approved the potential sale in March.
“The fact that we are now acquiring HIMARS and gaining long-range precision combat capability on the ground is important – not only for the army but for the Armed Forces as a whole and for our allies,” Swedish Army Chief Major General Johan Pekkari said.
Munition Agreements
Sweden has also signed a cooperation agreement with Finland covering the two countries’ rocket artillery capabilities, including training, education, capability development, maintenance, supply security, and production.
The cooperation will allow Sweden to draw on Finland’s experience with the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), which uses the same munitions and components as HIMARS.
Finland operates 41 M270 launchers, with the first systems delivered in 2007. Both the M270 and HIMARS use the MLRS family of munitions, including Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets and Army Tactical Missile System missiles.
In addition, HIMARS manufacturer Lockheed Martin has signed an agreement with Swedish defense company Saab covering the potential integration of Saab’s Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB) and the production of munitions for HIMARS and other systems, including the Patriot air defense system.
The GLSDB has a longer range than GMLRS rockets and uses a maneuverable flight path, giving it greater flexibility to engage targets from different directions.
Source: Defence Post
