The Swedish Government has announced an investment of more than SEK 4 billion (approximately €372 million) to acquire various types of unmanned systems for the Swedish Armed Forces. Additionally, the Government is allocating SEK 1.3 billion to enhance space capabilities.
This investment in unmanned systems encompasses loitering munitions, reconnaissance drones, unmanned airborne electronic warfare technologies, and unmanned vehicles for various marine applications. These acquisitions aim to strengthen the combat units’ capabilities. The funding for space capabilities will be used to acquire several reconnaissance and surveillance satellites.
“Unmanned systems and space situation awareness are crucial in modern warfare. By investing in drone capabilities and space systems, we are strengthening the Swedish Armed Forces’ operational capabilities, increasing the resilience of our combat units and improving our capability to act together with Allies,” said Minister for Defence Pål Jonson, speaking at the Folk och Försvar security conference in Sweden.
The experiences gained from the conflict in Ukraine clearly indicate that drone warfare has become a central aspect of modern combat. They also highlight the significance of reconnaissance and surveillance conducted from space. Consequently, the Swedish Armed Forces must swiftly improve its capabilities in unmanned systems and enhance its ability to collect data from space.
“Enhanced space capabilities offer Sweden improved intelligence gathering, enhanced freedom of action and greater strategic autonomy. By building up national satellite capabilities, we are strengthening the protection of our combat forces and increasing Sweden’s value as a relevant and reliable Ally,” said Minister Jonson.
Deliveries of these acquisitions are expected between 2026 and 2028.
This investment aims to strengthen the operational effectiveness of the Swedish Armed Forces through advanced unmanned technologies.
Investment in space
The Government is allocating SEK 1.3 billion to enhance Sweden’s space capabilities, improving the intelligence and long-range combat capabilities of the Swedish Armed Forces. This investment supports Sweden’s defence strategy for space and follows the planned 2024 launch of the first military satellite.
The initiative includes acquiring around ten additional satellites, significantly boosting Sweden’s capabilities and strategic autonomy as an international ally. This investment adds to the previously approved’ space billion’ from 2024. Deliveries of the new satellites are expected from 2026 to 2028, with funding coming from the SEK 25 billion allocated for ‘opportunity purchases’ approved by the Swedish Parliament in the 2025 Spring Amending Budget.
“All of this is possible due to the SEK 25bn rapid-procurement funds introduced by the government last year. About SEK 10bn has so far been invested in counter-drone systems, Gripen capabilities, and now military satellites and drones,” emphasised the Swedish minister of defence.
