Sweden Plans to Increase Its Armed Forces by Nearly 40,000 Members Over the Next Decade

Sweden plans to invest a total of 174 billion kronor (15.4 billion euros) in national defense by 2030, as reported by Dagens Nyheter.

‘At the heart of this defense plan must be the strengthening of combat readiness and the enhancement of military capabilities. Our military units represent our most significant contribution to NATO,’ stated Defense Minister Pål Jonson at a press conference. ‘Sweden is facing serious times. Building a stronger defense is essential, and any delay is dangerous.’

Although Jonson emphasized that the defense plan follows key recommendations made by a defense committee comprising representatives from all parliamentary parties this spring, the government still intends to modify the proposal to train 12,000 conscripts each year by 2032. According to the defense plan introduced today, achieving this goal may take an additional three years.

The government has also highlighted a proposal to establish a Norrland Infantry Regiment in northern Sweden.

At the same time, there will be increased investments in resilience, focusing on boosting reserves of ammunition, spare parts, command and control systems, logistics, and other essential supplies. In addition to ammunition, plans include acquiring new artillery systems and naval vessels, as well as strengthening air defense, as reported by SVT. The government’s proposal highlights the significant role of drones in both aerial and maritime operations within the armed forces.

There are also plans to invest more in research and innovation.

The composition of ready military units, which will include not only active-duty personnel but also conscripts, reservists, and members of the home guard, is expected to rise from the current 88,000 to 115,200 by 2030, and to 127,300 by 2035.

However, the government acknowledges in the document that the armed forces are facing personnel shortages, particularly among officers.