Sweden formalises preparations for Poland's temporary submarine

Sweden's Defence Materiel Administration and armed forces agreed on October 15 how they will prepare, maintain and support HMS Södermanland for its temporary lease to Poland. The arrangement implements a June 29 bilateral lease agreement signed alongside Poland's order for three Saab A26 submarines, providing an interim underwater platform during the fleet transition. Polish crews are undertaking an 18-month training programme at Karlskrona, progressing from naval instruction to the Swedish submarine flotilla. The Södermanland-class boat derives from the Västergötland design, while delivery of the final three-submarine A26 order is scheduled for 2038.