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STOCKHOLM/WASHINGTON — Sweden will start negotiations on a $1.5 billion Raytheon Patriot air defence missile system, as interest in missile defence systems strengthens amid heightened regional tensions and ballistic missile technology improves globally.

The Swedish government said on Tuesday negotiations with the U.S. company will target delivery beginning in 2020, and for the system to be operational by 2025 at the latest.

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Iran, North Korea and Russia, among others, have made advancements in their missile technology.

The government will make a final decision on the acquisition during 2018.

Raytheon said, “Sweden’s announcement brings them closer to joining the growing group of European nations depending on the combat-proven Patriot to defend against ballistic and cruise missiles, and advanced aircraft and drones.”

The Swedish government said, “based on this tender and the decision of the Riksdag (the Swedish Parliament) on the proposal to acquire a new medium-range air defense system in the 2018 budget bill, the government will make a final decision on the acquisition during 2018.”