Camilla Jessen
Sweden cuts reliance on foreign intelligence.
According to Defense Express, the Swedish government is moving to strengthen its military capabilities by investing in drones, long-range strike systems and sovereign reconnaissance assets.
Officials say the decisions are directly informed by Ukraine’s wartime experience.
The announcement follows an earlier commitment of $1.6 billion to build territorial air defense systems designed to protect civilians and critical infrastructure across Sweden.
Together, the measures mark one of the most ambitious defense expansions in the country’s recent history.
Major drone investment
Defense Express reports that Sweden will allocate 4 billion Swedish kronor, roughly $440 million, to procure a wide range of unmanned systems. These include loitering munitions, reconnaissance drones, maritime drones and counter-UAS detection tools.
The package also covers electronic warfare systems and platforms spanning FPV drones, long-range strike drones, and both surface and underwater maritime drones for multiple missions.
Specific platforms have not been disclosed. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2026 and conclude by 2028.
Eyes in orbit
At the same time, Sweden plans to invest an additional 1.3 billion Swedish kronor, about $140 million, to acquire up to 10 reconnaissance satellites between 2026 and 2028, Defense Express reports.
The aim is to reduce reliance on foreign intelligence sources and ensure sovereign control over critical data. While Swedish officials have not named suppliers, Finnish company ICEYE confirmed it secured a contract to provide synthetic aperture radar satellites.
ICEYE’s SAR systems can produce imagery with resolution down to 16 centimeters per pixel, regardless of weather or time of day. Similar technology is currently used by Ukraine’s defense forces.
Reducing dependence
Defense Express notes that the satellite program is intended to boost Sweden’s strategic autonomy and strengthen its role as a security and space partner among allies.
European states have traditionally relied heavily on U.S. intelligence, but recent political developments have highlighted the risks of that dependence.
The investments also align with Sweden’s longer-term ambition to field long-range missiles with ranges of up to 2,000 kilometers by 2030, ensuring intelligence access without external restrictions.
Sources: Defense Express
