Week 24, 2025 was marked by significant news within the Swedish defence industry and international defence cooperation. Below is a compiled overview of the week's reported events.

Domains

Land

  • Sweden and Latvia have signed a letter of intent regarding the delivery of 18 Archer 8x8 artillery systems from BAE Systems Bofors. The cooperation includes joint training and possible future collaboration on a shared artillery platform. The letter of intent is intended to pave the way for a government-to-government agreement and deeper defence cooperation between the two countries. "This letter of intent is clear proof that Archer is a world-leading and highly sought-after artillery system," says Stefan Löfström, Director of Marketing and Sales at BAE Systems Bofors. Read more

Air

  • Saab and Helsing have conducted the first test flights with an AI agent integrated into a JAS 39 Gripen E. The flights took place in late May and early June and are part of the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV)-funded project Beyond, which forms part of Sweden's future combat aircraft studies. During the test, the aircraft autonomously performed manoeuvres in a beyond visual range combat scenario using the AI agent Centaur, which also provided the pilot with instructions to fire weapon systems. A second manned Gripen aircraft simulated adversaries, while a safety pilot in the AI-controlled aircraft was prepared to assume control if required. Read more

Industry

  • Knowit Defence Technology is now offering a new round of its introduction programme "New to the Defence Sector", aimed at individuals with civilian expertise who wish to enter the defence sector. The programme is designed to provide participants with a fundamental understanding of the sector's structure, technology, and working methods. Applications are now open. Read more

Taken together, this week's news reflects a broad range of activity within the Swedish defence industry, from export successes for artillery systems and pioneering AI tests in combat aircraft to investment in skills and talent development within the sector.