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not factor in their procurement decisions, Saab were later less coy on the national benefits of the $1.38Bn annually exported by the sector. Strong links between Saab and the Swedish government were evident throughout, but were particularly seen in 2014 when the latter directed the former to take over the German firm Kockums. In contrast, Denmark’s founding membership of NATO and almost complete lack of
a domestic defence industry has led to a focus on open competition. This approach was most evident during a comprehensive brief on the evaluation
of bids for the Danish New Fighter programme, resulting in the decision to procure F35, but also in its Armoured Personnel Carrier replacement.
The course was well hosted in Sweden by Saab and its ship and submarine-building subsidiary Saab- Kockums. Highlights at Saab in Linköping included a tour of the Gripen production line, a private flying display, along with dinner at the Swedish Air Force Museum. Saab-Kockums hosted a visit and dinner at the naval museum in Karlskrona, before briefing on the Visby-class ‘stealth’ corvette and touring the construction of the new A26 submarine.
During his introduction to the Royal Danish Military Academy the Commandant, Col Nicolas Veicherts, challenged the course to take part in the Academy’s annual Hærløbet running race. Twelve intrepid students took up the challenge and represented
“
ACSC in both 5 and 10km races, recording respectable times. The remainder of the students toured the Copenhagen citadel and, in an act particularly appreciated by the Danes, Capt McTear RN and Lt Col Brain laid a wreath at the Citadel’s war memorial.
Following a night in Copenhagen, the Exercise concluded with the course visiting the global shipping firm Maersk headquarters with a focus on their exploitation of technology and data to drive efficiency into operations. Maersk’s approach to digital procurement and extensive use of online reverse auctions proved a particularly interesting approach with potential lessons for the UK MoD.
Strong links
between Saab and the Swedish
government
were evident throughout... ◆◆◆