Logo: to the web site of the Swedish Defence University

Purpose In response to heightened security concerns, many European countries are rearming their military forces while simultaneously donating substantial quantities of military equipment to Ukraine. This situation has created a significant demand for new military materials and ammunition, both to replenish donated stockpiles and to expand domestic capacities. For the defence industry, these developments impose intense production pressures and place additional strain on subcontractors. This research aims to examine, from a logistical perspective, the changes in the defence industry’s supply chains from before 2022 to the present, identifying key shifts and emerging challenges. Methodology A simplified literature review was conducted, and empirical data were collected through 45 in-depth interviews with representatives from four major defence industry manufacturers in Sweden, the procurement authority and the Swedish Armed Forces. Findings The study reveals a significant shift in priorities for the procurement authority and the Swedish Armed Forces, transitioning from a pre-2022 focus on cost efficiency for specified capabilities to a heightened emphasis on delivery reliability and supply chain security. For the defence industry, the surge in demand has resulted in longer lead times from subcontractors, necessitating the adoption of innovative strategies to enhance delivery capacity. The trade-off between short-term readiness and long-term capability remains difficult to achieve within the industry, primarily because the customer has not historically demanded long-term delivery capacity. Nevertheless, there are emerging initiatives from procurement authorities to establish agreements that cover deliveries over extended periods. Research limitations and implications This study is based on empirical data from Sweden, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. However, the results are likely applicable to other nations experiencing similar circumstances. The findings highlight the need for further research on the strategic adaptations of the defence industry in response to evolving supply chain dynamics. Practical implications A deeper understanding of the defence market conditions supports decision-makers in making more informed and strategic decisions regarding procurement and supply chain management.