Sweden invests 374 million euros in drones to counter Russia
In a move reflecting growing security concerns in the Baltic region and Northern Europe, Swedish Defense Minister Päl Jonsson announced on Monday a new military investment plan worth 4 billion kronor (approximately 374 million euros). This plan aims to equip the Swedish armed forces with the latest drone technology at a time of significant geopolitical shifts across the European continent.
Johnson explained that this strategic investment will include the purchase of a diverse range of unmanned systems, including drones designed for reconnaissance and surveillance missions, electronic warfare systems, and long-range "cruising munitions," known militarily as "suicide drones." The minister emphasized that the delivery schedule is highly ambitious, with Sweden expected to receive all these systems within just two years.
Enhancing naval and space capabilities
The announcement was not limited to ground and air forces, but also included strengthening maritime security through the acquisition of specialized maritime drones for mine clearance and coastal surveillance. This focus stems from the strategic importance of the Baltic Sea, which has become a major point of friction between Russia and Western countries.
In a related development concerning force integration, the minister noted the allocation of 1.3 billion kronor (approximately 121.5 million euros) to enhance the Kingdom's space capabilities. The plan includes the launch of ten new military satellites, designed to increase the accuracy and effectiveness of drone and cruise missile systems, thereby providing the Swedish Armed Forces with highly precise surveillance and targeting capabilities.
Strategic shift in military doctrine
This announcement comes as part of a series of accelerated Swedish moves to bolster national defense. These steps are a practical manifestation of Sweden's abandonment of its centuries-long policy of military non-alignment and its full engagement in European and transatlantic security arrangements. Last Sunday, the minister announced another substantial investment of 15 billion kronor (1.4 billion euros) to strengthen land-based air defenses, including the acquisition last November of advanced IRIS-T missiles to protect its airspace from enemy missiles and fighter jets.
Europe and security responsibility
In his address at the annual defense forum, Johnson painted a grim picture of the current security situation compared to last year, clearly pointing to the source of the threat. "Adding to the growing threat from Russia is the increasing unpredictability of US behavior," the minister said, implicitly referring to the political infighting in Washington that could affect its foreign commitments.
The Swedish Defense Minister concluded his remarks with a clear message to the Old Continent, stressing that there is one inevitable conclusion in light of these facts, which is that "Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security and for supporting the security of Ukraine," to ensure the stability of the region and not rely entirely on the American ally.
