Sweden considers European common air defence as NATO membership talks drag on
Sweden's air defence is being reinforced by the Patriot system. (Photo: Raytheon Missiles and Defense)
The Swedish Prime Minister said the country will join the 15-member joint missile defence initiative launched in October and outlined its strengths and commitments to the NATO alliance.
Sweden is planning to join the European common air defence system, the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said on 8 January at the Folk och Försvar Annual National Conference in Sälen, Sweden.
‘The war in Ukraine demonstrates the importance of having a modern air defence system to protect the civilian population and infrastructure,’ he said.
‘Sweden will contribute new capabilities, with our air force, our air defence system and with our sensors like the Global Eye. On land, at sea and in the air, we have a solid understanding of [the] status in our neighbourhood.’
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 Land Warfare
-
![Companies downselected for British Army vehicle programme]()
Companies downselected for British Army vehicle programme
It is believed that three companies did not make the downselect but a dark horse in Spain’s Iturri is believed to have got through.
-
![September land forces roundup: DVD 2026 puts British Army requirements in the spotlight]()
September land forces roundup: DVD 2026 puts British Army requirements in the spotlight
The US Army began its search for a 155mm tracked mobile tactical cannon in an effort that Shephard forecasts could be worth billions of dollars. Meanwhile, the UK DVD exhibition saw companies showcase their offerings for the British Army’s mobility and air defence requirements.
-
![BAE Systems looks beyond the M113 replacement as it tests 30mm AMPV]()
BAE Systems looks beyond the M113 replacement as it tests 30mm AMPV
The development demonstrates how the platform could provide additional firepower and growth potential while the US Army progresses its long-term replacement for the Bradley.
-
![FNSS advances Indonesian Kaplan APC programme as local production expands]()
FNSS advances Indonesian Kaplan APC programme as local production expands
FNSS and PT Pindad are progressing the Indonesian tracked armoured personnel carrier programme as local production gets under way.
-
![Tulpar firing trials expand Hitfact Mk II platform options]()
Tulpar firing trials expand Hitfact Mk II platform options
Firing trials of the Tulpar and Leonardo Hitfact Mk II combination follow an integration programme covering mechanical, electrical, electronic and software interfaces.
