Saab CEO Urges Europe to Build Its Own Missile Defense Shield

Swedish defense giant Saab AB, a leader in aerospace and military technology, has seen its share price soar amid global security concerns. CEO Micael Johansson, also president of the Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD), spoke with TIME at the Shangri-La Security Dialogue in Singapore about Europe's defense challenges and future warfare trends.

Key Takeaways:

• Europe's Defense Naivety: Johansson criticized Europe's post-Cold War complacency, stating, "We've been too naive for decades." He emphasized the need for a stronger industrial base to ensure security.
• Lessons from Ukraine: The war highlighted the importance of autonomous systems, electronic warfare, and continuous upgrades. Johansson noted that future conflicts may differ but will rely heavily on AI and swarm technology.
• NATO Integration: Sweden's recent NATO membership has reshaped its defense strategy, focusing on supporting Finland's 1,300 km border with Russia and enhancing interoperability with NATO.
• Golden Dome for Europe: Johansson endorsed the idea of a European missile defense shield, similar to the U.S.'s proposed "Golden Dome," calling it a flagship project for ASD. He stressed the need for integrated short, medium, and long-range capabilities.
• AI in Warfare: Saab is integrating AI into electronic warfare systems to improve situational awareness and cognitive threat recognition. Johansson warned that "if you don't use AI, you're done."
• Gray Zone Threats: From cyberattacks to sabotage of critical infrastructure like the Nord Stream pipeline, Johansson highlighted the growing use of gray zone tactics by adversaries.
• European Collaboration: As ASD chairman, Johansson aims to foster European defense collaboration, reduce reliance on U.S. imports, and include the U.K. in E.U. defense initiatives.
• Trump's Tariffs: While tariffs could disrupt supply chains, Johansson noted the defense industry's resilience due to regionalized production and stockpiles.

Quotes:

• "We need to come together—industries and countries—to create things like [a missile defense system]." — Micael Johansson
• "The future is not to create a super-secret electronic warfare library... Now the sensor systems are intelligent." — Johansson on AI's role in defense

External Links:

• Saab CEO elected ASD president
• U.S. Defense Secretary's Shangri-La speech
• Nord Stream sabotage

Johansson's vision underscores a pivotal moment for European defense, blending innovation with geopolitical urgency.