Sweden Plans to Expand Armed Forces to 115,000 by 2030
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Loading... - Blair Hall
- 16 Oct 2024
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The Swedish government announced plans to expand its armed forces by 27,000 soldiers by 2030, bringing the total number of military personnel—both professional soldiers and conscripts—to 115,000. This move reflects Sweden’s increasing focus on defense as the country strengthens its military posture amid regional security concerns.
Increased Defense Spending
The government’s strategy includes 170 billion Swedish crowns ($16.41 billion) in additional defense spending over the next five years. By 2028, defense spending will account for 2.6% of Sweden’s GDP, up from 2.2% in 2024.
In a news conference, Defense Minister Pal Jonson emphasized the need to build endurance and increase military readiness quickly, especially since Sweden recently joined NATO. He pointed to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine as a driving factor, saying,
“We must be able to respond more strongly and effectively to the changes taking place in our surrounding world.”
Defense Enhancements Across Military Branches
The funding will go toward upgrades across the Army, Navy, and Air Force, aimed at bolstering Sweden’s capabilities.
Navy:
- The five Visby-class corvettes will receive upgrades, including air defense systems.
- Procurement will begin for three larger Lulea-class corvettes to enhance maritime capabilities.
Air Force:
- Sweden will add three GlobalEye surveillance planes and a newer version of the JAS Gripen fighter jet.
- Black Hawk helicopters will also be incorporated to strengthen air operations.
Army:
- Additional tanks, armored vehicles, and drones will be acquired.
- The Archer air-defense system will see further reinforcements.
In September 2024, the government announced it would raise defense spending by 10% to 138 billion crowns, or 2.4% of GDP, for next year alone. This surge in funding reflects the urgency of Sweden’s defense priorities as it works to integrate more fully into NATO and respond to the shifting geopolitical landscape.
Sweden's military expansion reflects its heightened security concerns as tensions persist in Europe following Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. As NATO's newest member, Sweden aims to quickly boost its military capabilities to contribute effectively to the alliance and protect its own borders.
With expanded personnel and upgraded equipment, Sweden’s armed forces will be significantly better positioned to respond to emerging threats by the end of the decade.
