Why defence and security companies are looking to Gothenburg for collaboration
The Gothenburg region is home to major defence and aerospace companies including Saab Surveillance, GKN Aerospace, Volvo Defence and Hammar Defence. Combined with strong research capabilities, advanced manufacturing and expertise in dual-use technologies, the region offers an attractive environment for companies looking to build partnerships, develop new technologies and strengthen their position in European defence and security markets.
An industrial powerhouse with an ecosystem built for collaboration
Few regions in Northern Europe combine defence expertise, industrial capacity and innovation capabilities like Gothenburg. As Sweden’s second largest and fastest-growing city region, it is building its success on four core strengths - innovation, sustainability, collaboration, and a strong strategic position.
With active participation at MSPO, we look forward to building deeper relationships with both decision-makers and influencers in the international defence industry. Meeting representatives of companies and organizations on site will provide interesting conversations about potential collaborations and establishments in the Gothenburg region.
As a key hub within one of the world's most innovative countries, Gothenburg offers a unique environment where industry, academia and the public sector work closely together to accelerate technological development and strengthen competitiveness.
The region is also home to Defence XLab, an innovation arena that connects civilian technology companies, academia and the defence sector. Working closely with the Swedish Armed Forces, Defence XLab helps accelerate the path from civilian innovation to operational defence capability, accelerating the development of next-generation defence capabilities.
Saab Surveillance employs more than 3,000 people in the region and continues to expand its operations in radar, sensor and defence technologies. Here you also find GKN Aerospace, one of the world's leading aerospace suppliers, as well as Volvo Defence and Hammar Defence, companies that contribute critical capabilities in military mobility, logistics and equipment solutions.
In addition to these companies there is specialised suppliers, engineering firms, software developers and technology companies with expertise in areas such as electronics, communications, systems integration and advanced manufacturing.
The foundations are already in place. Gothenburg has a strong industrial heritage, world-leading technology companies and a well-established tradition of collaboration. Together, these strengths create an environment where defence innovation can develop and scale rapidly
This concentration of competencies creates favourable conditions for growth, technology development and strategic partnerships, both for established defence companies and for businesses looking to enter the sector.
Strong opportunities in dual-use technologies
The Gothenburg region is particularly well positioned to support the growing demand for dual-use technologies. Many of the region's industrial strengths have direct applications in both civilian and defence markets.
Many of the technologies needed to strengthen Europe's preparedness already exist within the region's civilian industries. By supporting the development of dual-use technologies, we can increase resilience, drive innovation and create new business opportunities at the same time
Areas such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, sensors, cybersecurity, mobility solutions, communications, advanced manufacturing and space-related technologies are all supported by a combination of industrial know-how, academic research and innovation environments.
For companies looking to develop next-generation products, this creates opportunities to collaborate across industries and accelerate innovation.
Research, talent and innovation
The region benefits from a long tradition of knowledge exchange and cross-sector partnerships. Industry, academia and the public sector work closely together through research partnerships, innovation programmes and test environments.
Chalmers University of Technology provides internationally recognised expertise in fields highly relevant to defence and security, including AI, autonomous systems, aerospace engineering, materials science and cybersecurity. Together with the region's strong engineering talent base, these capabilities help companies access the skills and partnerships needed to develop future solutions.
A platform for growth in defence and security
As Europe's defence sector continues to evolve, the Gothenburg region offers more than industrial capacity. It provides access to strategic partnerships, specialised competencies and a collaborative ecosystem where innovation can move quickly from concept to application.
For international companies seeking collaboration opportunities within defence, security and dual-use technologies, Gothenburg offers a strong foundation for long-term growth.