Swedish defence contractor Saab has acquired Degerfors-headquartered metal forming company Deform, a strategic move aimed at bolstering its supply chain.
Deform has been a critical player in Saab’s submarine manufacturing process, particularly for the Kockums business.
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Saab business area Kockums head Mats Wicksell said: “Deform has a unique expertise in the shaping of tough and demanding materials. They supply, among other things, to Saab’s ongoing production of the Blekinge-class submarines. We see it as a winning solution for both Kockums and Deform to secure the supply chain and jointly develop more businesses by making Deform part of the Saab family.”
Construction of Sweden’s two A26 Blekinge-class submarines commenced in September 2015 at Saab’s Kockum Shipyard.
The delivery of these vessels is anticipated by 2028. According to GlobalData intelligence, the value of the contract for these submarines stands at approximately $731m.
Deform’s workforce consists of 37 individuals and focuses on four key areas: pressure vessels, protection, heavy fabrication, and heavy machinery, according to information provided by Saab.
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By GlobalDataIn July 2025, Saab updated its financial outlook for 2025 in light of a significant increase in organic sales by 31.5% during the second quarter.
The company also reported a substantial 49% rise in operating income, which amounted to Skr1.98bn ($20m), corresponding to a profit margin of 10%.
Deform CEO Ulrika Jonsson said: “I am proud and happy that Deform is now part of Saab. This means a continued strong and stable future for our people and our business, where we continue to deliver world-class advanced products to our customers. We will keep the name Deform and our operations will continue in Degerfors, just as before.”
