Sweden joins four European countries to procure up to 1,000 US Patriot GEM-T missiles.

On November 15, 2024, Sweden signed a contract with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) for the joint procurement of Patriot GEM-T (Guidance Enhanced Missiles-Tactical) missiles. The agreement involves a coalition of five European countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, and Sweden, with a total order of up to 1,000 missiles. The GEM-T missiles are a critical component of the Patriot air defense system, designed to defend against cruise missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, and enemy aircraft.
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The GEM-T is a modernized variant of the MIM-104 Patriot missile system’s PAC-2 missile, and features upgraded proximity fuze and low-noise components to improve performance against threats with low radar cross-sections. (Picture source: Raytheon)

The contract includes provisions beyond missile procurement, such as the qualification of updated components, the addition of new suppliers, and the acquisition of test equipment and spare parts. These measures aim to support future maintenance and ensure a long-term supply solution for the Patriot system. According to FMV, Sweden’s Defense Materiel Administration, this agreement bolsters Sweden’s air defense capabilities while contributing to NATO’s collective air defense efforts in Europe.

Sweden’s investment in the joint initiative exceeds 5 billion SEK (approximately $455 million). The decision to participate followed a 2023 request from the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) for joint procurement to address increasing global demand and expand European industrial capacity for the GEM-T. The consolidated approach offers economies of scale and supports the development of local production capabilities. Without Sweden’s involvement, the opportunity would have been extended to other interested nations. FMV, the Swedish Armed Forces, NSPA, and the Ministry of Defense collaborated closely to finalize the agreement within a constrained timeline.

Since January 2024, NSPA has maintained an industrial agreement with COMLOG, a joint venture between Raytheon and MBDA, to expand production capacity for GEM-T missiles in Europe. This partnership is expected to improve procurement efficiency and delivery times while enhancing security of supply. FMV highlights the role of its representative at NSPA as a key factor in achieving timely coordination and gaining insights into NSPA’s operational methods.

The increasing adoption of the Patriot missile defense system is driven by its ability to counter a range of aerial threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles. The system has been deployed in various conflicts, such as the Gulf War and the conflict in Ukraine, where it demonstrated operational effectiveness. Its modular design allows for upgrades, such as the PAC-3 variant, which enhances its precision and expands its capabilities. The system's mobility and ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously contribute to its operational flexibility. Recent joint procurement agreements, like NATO’s acquisition of up to 1,000 Patriot missiles, aim to achieve economies of scale and improve interoperability among allied countries.

The GEM-T missile incorporates several technical advancements to enhance performance. These include a modernized digital fuze for improved sensitivity against high-speed tactical ballistic missiles, a low-noise oscillator to increase tracking capabilities, and a redesigned nose section for better effectiveness against high-speed, low-altitude threats. Complementing the PAC-3 variant, the GEM-T offers additional capabilities for engaging a variety of airborne threats. In 2018, the system was further updated with gallium nitride (GaN) transmitters to improve reliability and operational performance. The GEM-T remains in production to meet both domestic and international demand.