18th U.S. – Sweden Defense Industry Conference

This defense industry conference focuses on, and seeks to exploit, the natural synergy between U.S. and Swedish companies and their governments. The world around us is changing, the threat picture is more complex than ever and in combination with this, the technology development has advanced. Regional conflicts are escalating and war in Europe is now a fact. With Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it becomes immediately apparent that a strong transatlantic link will be even more important to safeguard American and European security now and in the long run. What is often called "great power competition" has returned and this is reflected in the reality we live in.

The U.S. and Sweden rank among the top countries in terms of their commitment to R&D, forming a firm foundation for defense system cooperation. Sweden ranks third globally in terms of its R&D investment as a percentage of GDP, while the U.S. ranks first in terms of the magnitude of its gross domestic expenditures on R&D. Both their defense establishments value R&D as the main source of innovation that will fuel development and production of next generation defense systems. Their defense industries rightfully value R&D as the primary driver of product development and future revenues. Though U.S. and Swedish companies reached their current states of excellence through different creative paths, both are highly respected at home and in the global marketplace.

In the 2016 Statement of Intent, signed by both governments, it was decided that the United States and Sweden should further strengthen the defense cooperation between our two countries. The planned efforts were divided into five key areas: 

• Enhancing our interoperability;
• Strengthening our capabilities and posture through training and exercises;
• Deepening our armament cooperation;
• Advancing our cooperation in research and development: and
• Meeting common challenges in multinational operations.

In support of these efforts, an array of senior government officials and industry executives will share their thoughts about national priorities and measures being taken in support of them. They will also speak about the current and evolving climate for and direction of defense cooperation, touching on development and production programs, science and technology programs, and innovation as it factors into defense strategy. Several U.S. and Swedish companies will be represented and share their success stories, challenges and what they view as key enablers in order to reach the common goal of expanded cooperation. 

The conference will provide for ample opportunities for networking and exploration of potential areas of cooperation among the attendees.