Thales to supply advanced radar to Sweden

Sweden has signed an agreement with French defense contractor Thales to procure the Ground Master 200 Multi-Mission Compact radar system, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) announced this week.

The contract aims to reinforce Sweden’s airspace surveillance and national security as regional threats persist.

The system, known as the GM200 MM/C, is scheduled for delivery beginning in 2026.

According to Thales, the GM200 MM/C radar incorporates advanced 4D Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology and offers a wide operational range of up to 400 kilometers. The radar is designed to detect, classify, and track various airborne threats — including drones, aircraft, and cruise missiles — while also supporting artillery counterfire and fire support missions.

In a statement, Håkan Ahlström, Thales Country Director for Sweden, said, “We are very proud to be selected by FMV to further strengthen Swedish sovereign and defense capabilities in an increasingly challenging environment. The Thales GM200 MM/C, with its high-end technology, will play a vital role contributing to the overall national security.”

The compact system is engineered for rapid deployment and increased mobility, allowing Swedish forces to reposition and operate with greater tactical flexibility. Thales says the radar’s performance gives operators extended “time-on-target,” enhancing their ability to respond to a broad spectrum of threats.

In addition to air surveillance, the radar offers ground-based tracking capabilities — including detection of incoming rockets, mortars, and artillery shells. It can determine points of origin and projected impact, supporting early warning and countermeasure decisions.

The deal comes amid a broader push by Stockholm to modernize its armed forces following Sweden’s accession to NATO. FMV emphasized that the acquisition fits into ongoing efforts to build out a resilient and integrated national air defense network.