Sweden, France and Cyprus have signed a framework agreement for the joint procurement of Akeron MP anti-tank missiles from MBDA. The agreement, announced during Euronaval 2026, establishes a framework for coordinated purchases, potentially supported by the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) financing instrument.
According to the French defence procurement agency DGA, the agreement is intended to reduce procurement costs and improve interoperability between the participating armed forces. Other European countries may also join the initiative.
The Akeron MP is a precision-guided anti-tank missile developed by MBDA for engaging armoured vehicles and fortified positions. It can also be launched from suitably equipped light vessels against land targets or light naval targets.
The missile is designated RBS 58 in Swedish service. As NDS reported in April 2023, Sweden and France previously signed a bilateral agreement covering joint studies, procurement and development of the system.
In January 2024, NDS also reported that Saab and MBDA had expanded their cooperation on anti-tank weapons and ground-based air defence, with Akeron MP identified as an initial focus of their joint work.
The new agreement extends the government-level procurement cooperation to Cyprus. DGA has not disclosed any missile quantities, contract value or delivery schedule.
