Sweden is set to significantly expand its use of unmanned military technology, committing billions of crowns to new drone systems as part of a broader effort to modernize its armed forces. The investment reflects changing battlefield conditions and lessons drawn from recent conflicts in Europe.
Major Investment in Unmanned Systems
The Swedish government will spend approximately 4 billion crowns, equivalent to about $437 million, on unmanned drone systems to be delivered over the next two years. The announcement was made on January 12 at Sweden’s annual defense conference in Salen, northern Sweden, by Defense Minister Pal Jonson.
“The Russian bombings of Ukraine remind us daily of the need for strong air defense.
SwedishPM, CarlOskar Bohlin & I therefore presented in Sälen a concept for a new Swedish air defense, where we invest 15 billion to protect both civilian & military targets.”
Types of Drones to Be Acquired
The planned purchases include a broad range of unmanned capabilities. Sweden will acquire long-range attack drones, electronic warfare systems, and surveillance drones. The investment also covers marine surveillance drones and unmanned systems designed for minesweeping operations, expanding both land and maritime capabilities.
Changing Nature of Warfare
Speaking at the conference, Jonson emphasized how modern warfare is evolving. “No one knows what the next war will look like but one thing is clear, the future battle field will be characterised by unmanned systems and long-range capacity,” he said. He added, “Anyone who doesn’t understand that is going to be either dead or defeated. War is, as we know, a cruel teacher.”
Beyond drones, the government will invest an additional 1.3 billion crowns in new military satellites. This move is part of a wider push to strengthen Sweden’s intelligence, surveillance, and communication capabilities.
Broader Military Buildup Since 2022
Sweden has been increasing permanent military spending since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. After joining NATO in March 2024, the country intensified efforts to modernize its forces. The government is also borrowing 300 billion crowns to accelerate the acquisition of major equipment, including air defense systems, submarines, and surface ships.
