NATO membership’s ripple effect: Transforming Nordic air forces
The exact form of the Nordic Air Force concept remains uncertain with several details requiring further refinement. (Photo: Saab)
As Sweden and Finland embrace their newfound NATO membership, alignment with alliance requirements and regional interests could herald the dawn of a reinvigorated Nordic Air Force with enhanced defence capabilities.
After almost two centuries of maintaining official military neutrality, Sweden made a historic decision on 7 March 2024 to join NATO, expanding its role on the global NATO stage while opening avenues for closer cooperation with its Nordic counterparts.
The Swedish Armed Forces, especially the Swedish Air Force (Flygvapnet), had long been shaped by the country’s commitment to impartial defence, said Maj Gen Jonas Wilkman, chief of the Swedish Air Force. Saab itself, Sweden’s foremost defence company, was established by a nation ready to stand alone with a strategic focus on addressing potential threats from Russia.
Talking during the RUSI
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Bundeswehr launches loitering munition spending spree with $2.16 billion unassigned]()
Bundeswehr launches loitering munition spending spree with $2.16 billion unassigned
After months of delays, Rheinmetall has inked a €300 million deal with Germany for its FV-014 drone this week as part of a wider framework contract worth €2.4 billion for loitering munition procurement. Shephard looks at how the as-yet-unawarded funds could be spent.
-
![Can laser-guided rockets and light aircraft help tackle the CUAS cost-curve?]()
Can laser-guided rockets and light aircraft help tackle the CUAS cost-curve?
While the move to integrate lower-cost missiles onto more combat aircraft is long overdue, there is also an opportunity for cheaper turboprop platforms to perform CUAS roles.
-
![Industry makes strides on CCA programme as USAF makes nearly $1 billion funding request]()
Industry makes strides on CCA programme as USAF makes nearly $1 billion funding request
Anduril’s YFQ-44A has successfully undergone USAF experimental testing for Increment 1, while an engine has officially been selected for Northrop Grumman’s YFQ-48A – a potential candidate for Increment 2 of the air force’s CCA programme.
-
![Australia’s revised defence investment plan: what it means for air warfare]()
Australia’s revised defence investment plan: what it means for air warfare
The Australian government’s 2026 National Defence Strategy has unveiled a major spending uplift planned for the Royal Australian Air Force, focused on upgrading its air combat and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, as well as upping investment in uncrewed aerial systems.
-
![What does the FY2027 US budget signal for the country’s future airpower plans?]()
What does the FY2027 US budget signal for the country’s future airpower plans?
The record-breaking defence budget request focuses on bolstering some core next-generation aircraft programmes across each domain, although questions remain on the US's commitment to some key defence programmes.
