Sweden has announced a significant investment of 15 billion Swedish kronor (approximately $1.6 billion) to enhance its homeland air defense capabilities. This strategic move aims to address gaps in protecting civilian populations and critical infrastructure from aerial threats. Additionally, the Swedish government has committed 1.3 billion kronor (around $140 million) to expand its space-based intelligence capabilities.
The announcement was made by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson during the annual Folk och Försvar national defense conference in Sälen. He emphasized the investment’s goal: to better protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, marking a notable shift in Sweden’s military focus. Traditionally, the military has concentrated on defending its units and infrastructure; now, it is broadening its scope to include urban areas and key facilities.
Minister for Civil Defense Carl-Oskar Bohlin revealed that six months prior, the government issued a directive aimed at safeguarding population centers and critical infrastructure. The initiative draws heavily from lessons learned during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “What we see in Ukraine is how Russia, in violation of international law, attacks civilians and civilian infrastructure,” Bohlin stated. He underscored the importance of adapting Sweden’s defense strategy in light of these developments.
New Air Defense Units to Protect Civilian Targets
The new territorial air defense units will primarily consist of short-range systems, including independently operated company-sized units. These units will be designed for high mobility and will be able to protect civilian targets such as bridges, railway hubs, nuclear and hydropower plants, and urban areas.
A major order to industry is expected in the first quarter of 2026, with potential candidates for the tender including Rheinmetall’s Skynex and BAE Systems Bofors’ Tridon Mk2. This layered and mobile defense system is a response to increasing aerial threats and complements earlier announced plans to invest nearly 40 billion kronor (around $4.37 billion) in various air defense systems.
Sweden’s Defense Minister Pål Jonson noted that these initiatives align with NATO’s call for a substantial increase in air defense capabilities. He pointed out that Russia’s military-industrial complex continues to operate effectively, with assistance from nations like North Korea and Iran, which has significantly boosted Russia’s production capacity for long-range missiles and drones.
Expanding Space Capabilities
In tandem with air defense improvements, Sweden is allocating 1.3 billion kronor for enhancing its space capabilities. This investment will focus on developing new intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) satellites. The initiative aims to bolster Sweden’s strategic autonomy and improve intelligence gathering.
The Swedish military launched its first dedicated communications satellite in August 2024, following the publication of its inaugural space strategy. The current announcement indicates plans to add approximately 10 more satellites to the military fleet.
Stockholm has also entered into agreements with commercial space firms, including Finnish company ICEYE and US-based Planet. Under a multi-year deal with ICEYE, the Swedish Armed Forces will acquire synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites, data, and software necessary for establishing a sovereign space-based surveillance capability. ICEYE’s technology is noted for its ability to collect imagery in challenging weather conditions.
Similarly, Planet has secured a multi-year agreement for dedicated satellites and AI-driven intelligence solutions, emphasizing the importance of independent European capabilities. Company co-founder and CEO Will Marshall stated that “Europe needs its own eyes, and Sweden is leading the way by securing sovereign space capability at incredible speed.”
These comprehensive investments in both air defense and space capabilities reflect Sweden’s commitment to enhancing national security in the face of evolving threats. The initiatives are part of a broader strategy to ensure resilience against both conventional and asymmetric challenges in a changing global landscape.
