Sweden to buy US-made HIMARS as it builds long-range firepower

Sweden’s government said it will buy U.S.-made High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers for striking targets at longer distances. A U.S. Army rocket launcher fires during exercise Nordic Strike at the Vidsel Test Range in Sweden, Sept. 27, 2022. Sweden and Finland signed a rocket artillery cooperation agreement alongside the purchase, covering sustainment, spare parts and ammunition. (Devin Klecan/U.S. Army) Sweden’s government said it will buy U.S.-made High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers for striking targets at longer distances, as NATO’s newest member moves to rapidly strengthen its firepower amid heightened security concerns in Europe. The country’s first HIMARS launchers are expected to be delivered next year as part of an acquisition costing about $730 million, the government said in a statement Monday.

The statement did not specify the number of HIMARS included, but state broadcaster Sveriges Television reported it was “just over ten firing units.” “In light of the security situation, rapidly available capabilities are needed that complement conventional artillery systems such as Archer artillery systems and grenade launchers, and that are also compatible with Allies’ systems,” the government’s statement said. Sweden also announced Monday that it is expanding its artillery cooperation with neighboring Finland. Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson and Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen signed a letter of intent covering cooperation on rocket artillery, including training, education,