The Swedish government has approved the Swedish Armed Forces’ procurement of the US-made M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) under a deal valued at approximately SEK 7 billion ($727 million).
The first HIMARS systems are expected to be delivered in 2027. The rocket launchers will strengthen Sweden’s existing artillery capabilities and complement systems such as the Archer self-propelled howitzer.
The procurement forms part of Sweden’s Defence Resolution 2025–2030, adopted following the country’s NATO accession and the security challenges arising from Russia’s war in Ukraine. Under the plan, the Swedish Army will establish two additional artillery battalions along with a new rocket-artillery unit.
Sweden ordered 48 Archer 8×8 artillery systems from BAE Systems in September 2023 and later added 18 more howitzers in 2025. The country has also upgraded its fleet of 24 Archer 6×6 systems to the latest “Version C” configuration.
Although Sweden has not revealed the number of HIMARS launchers included in the approved procurement, it previously sought 20 systems along with associated missiles, ammunition, and support equipment. The US State Department approved the potential sale in March.
Sweden Expands Rocket-Artillery Cooperation
Sweden has also signed a cooperation agreement with Finland to strengthen bilateral collaboration in rocket artillery. The agreement covers training, education, capability development, maintenance, supply security, and ammunition production.
Through the partnership, Sweden will benefit from Finland’s operational experience with the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). The M270 and HIMARS share several common components and employ the same family of precision-guided munitions.
Finland currently operates 41 M270 launchers, with its first systems entering service in 2007. Both platforms can employ MLRS-family weapons, including Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets and Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles.
Meanwhile, HIMARS manufacturer Lockheed Martin has entered into an agreement with Swedish defense company Saab to explore the integration of Saab’s Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB) with HIMARS. The partnership also covers potential munition production for HIMARS and other weapon systems, including the Patriot air defense system.
The GLSDB provides a longer reach than GMLRS rockets and follows a maneuverable flight path, offering greater flexibility in engaging targets from different directions.
