Sweden Buys HIMARS, Ammunition to Be Produced Domestically

Long-Range Firepower for Sweden

Sweden’s government has approved the purchase of the American HIMARS rocket artillery system, securing just over ten launchers with a price tag exceeding 7 billion Swedish kronor. The first units are scheduled to arrive next year, giving the Swedish Army a capability it currently lacks: striking targets at far greater distances. Defense Minister Pål Jonson stressed that the system strengthens deterrence and complicates any potential aggression against Sweden or its allies.

Securing Ammunition Supply

To counter global shortages of compatible ammunition, Saab and Lockheed Martin have signed a letter of intent to produce the PrSM precision missile—with a range up to 500 kilometers—inside Sweden. This move aims to guarantee a reliable supply chain and bolster the country’s defense industrial base. It also supports the December 2024 parliamentary defense decision by accelerating and reinforcing its implementation.

Nordic Cooperation and Training

Since Sweden has not operated similar systems in modern times, it will lean on Finland’s extensive expertise in rocket artillery. A joint declaration enables training and technical maintenance of the new units within Finland. Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen described the accord as another milestone in the deepening military collaboration between the two neighbors, ensuring the system becomes fully operational with shared knowledge and support. This partnership marks a practical step toward integrated Nordic defense readiness.