Saab CEO Micael Johansson elected to head European industry association ASD

Micael Johansson is the new President and Chairman of the Board of the Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD). With this, the association has elected the CEO of the Swedish defence group Saab.

The election took place at the ASD Board meeting and the ASD Convention 2025 in London; the term of office is two years. Johansson was previously Vice-Chairman of the ASD Board and takes up the new office on 15 June 2025. His role as President and CEO of Saab remains unaffected.

For Europe, the appointment comes at a time of growing security policy challenges. At the head of the association, Johansson intends to advance innovation, cooperation and sustainability and to promote a shared vision for a secure Europe.

“It is an honour to take on this office. I will work to ensure that ASD plays a leading role in strengthening European capabilities and competitiveness,” said the Saab CEO. He added: “My goal is to develop ASD further as a driving force to safeguard the interests of our industry – in line with a strategic orientation of the European defence, security and aerospace industry.”

Micael Johansson takes over an association with weight

As the central representative body of the aerospace, security and defence industry in Europe, ASD represents more than 4,000 companies from 21 European countries. In close coordination with institutions and political decision-makers, the association works for a secure and innovative industrial ecosystem in Europe.