Sweden’s recent air defence spend tips to $6 billion with 2026 procurement planned
Sweden ordered launchers for the IRIS-T SLS short-range ground-based air defence system in November last year. (Photo: Diehl Defence)
Procurement of various short-range systems will begin in the first quarter of 2026, with additional procurements to be made later in the year.
Sweden has said it will invest SEK15 billion (US$1.6 billion) in expanding its air defence capabilities to protect and defend combat units as well as critical and civilian infrastructure.
The investment in ground-based air defence units, according to the government, will primarily cover those with short-range protection and focus on units that are modular and can be combined.
The first order is planned for the first quarter of 2026 and additional procurements will follow, the government added.
“Experience from the war in Ukraine clearly demonstrates the crucial importance of a robust and resilient air defence,” the country’s Minister for Defence
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![Serbia looks to balance lighter platforms and heavier calibres]()
Serbia looks to balance lighter platforms and heavier calibres
Even small tactical vehicles can benefit from more powerful offensive and defensive armament, but as recent developments at Yugoimport demonstrate, there are still limitations to the sophistication of what can be fielded.
-
![Next-generation gun set to boost US Army combat vehicle capabilities]()
Next-generation gun set to boost US Army combat vehicle capabilities
The 50mm main weapon on the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle currently being competed for by industry will offer a step-change in firepower and targeting over the in-service M2 Bradley.
-
![The year ahead: Major trends and forecasts for the land domain in 2026]()
The year ahead: Major trends and forecasts for the land domain in 2026
2025 was a busy year for the land domain and 2026 looks set to be just as big. Shephard’s Dr Peter Magill analyses some of the major trends we are likely to see in the year ahead.
-
![Can Iranian air defence systems compete for exports?]()
Can Iranian air defence systems compete for exports?
Iran’s defence industry is now producing a range of surface-to-air missile systems and has begun to market them internationally. Using what appears to be a mixture of original and reverse-engineered elements, how do they stack up compared to other countries’ offerings?
