Swedish Government Decides On Next-Generation Submarine

Kockums AB, The Swedish Government has approved initiation of the design phase for a new generation of submarines and has authorised placement of the order for this phase by the Swedish Armed Forces. 
 
“This is a highly welcome announcement, that is good for Kockums and its employees, as well as for the Swedish Navy. Development work will now be able to continue, and this is important. The announcement also clearly signifies Sweden’s intention to continue its commitment to its submarine force, which has been so successful,” says Kjell Göthe, Kockums’ head of corporate communication, commenting on the news. 
 
The following extract is taken from the Swedish Government press communiqué: 
 
“The Swedish Government has approved placement of an order by the Swedish Armed Forces for the design phase of a next-generation submarine (NGU). Actual procurement of such a vessel is dependant on a decision to be taken during 2008 concerning Swedish Government approval for initiation of construction.” 
 
“The Government believes that development of the NGU concept could offer the Swedish Armed Forces a means of maintaining a cost-efficient submarine force in the foreseeable future. Domestic development of such a vessel could prove more economical than procurement of a corresponding platform on the international market. 
 
“Domestic development of the NGU would also ensure retention of the majority of Sweden’s naval shipbuilding expertise, securing the country’s ability to maintain the submarines and surface combat ships that are currently in service.” 
 
“Following completion of feasibility studies, the project will now move on to the design phase. A long-term analysis of the future submarine requirement will be conducted by the Implementation Committee for Efficiency Optimisation in Defence Materiel Procurement.”