Sweden is investing four billion kronor (approximately €374 million) to acquire a wide range of military drone systems for all branches of its armed forces, Defence Minister Pål Jonson announced on Monday.
Jonson said the investment included reconnaissance and electronic warfare drones and “long-range loitering munitions”—commonly referred to as suicide or kamikaze drones. In addition, Sweden plans to deploy maritime drones designed for mine clearance operations and maritime surveillance, strengthening its ability to monitor and protect coastal areas.
According to Jonson, the drone systems should all be delivered “within two years.”
Beyond drones, Sweden is also allocating 1.3 billion kronor to expand its space-based defence capabilities. This investment includes approximately ten military satellites intended to improve the effectiveness of unmanned systems and cruise missiles.
The announcement follows several recent defence spending decisions by Stockholm. On Sunday, Sweden revealed plans to invest 15 billion kronor in ground-based air defence systems. In November, the government also confirmed the purchase of IRIS-T short-range surface-to-air missiles worth roughly €314 million to counter threats from missiles, drones, and combat aircraft.
Speaking at an annual defence conference, Jonson noted that Europe’s security situation has deteriorated over the past year. He argued that European countries must assume greater responsibility for their own security.
