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Sweden Today

Swedish news in English

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Sweden Boosts Defense Spending Amid Global Tensions

Published: 2024-10-15

The Swedish government has announced a significant increase in defense spending, allocating 174 billion kronor to military defense and 37.5 billion kronor to civil defense by 2030. This move comes in response to heightened global tensions, particularly due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and aims to strengthen Sweden's military capabilities and NATO integration.

Defense Minister Pål Jonson emphasized the urgency of building a stronger defense, with plans to expand military personnel from 88,000 to 115,000 by 2030, and further to 130,000 by 2035. The proposal includes investments in new military equipment, such as ammunition, artillery, and naval vessels, as well as advancements in drone technology.

Civil defense will also see enhancements in critical sectors like communication, transportation, and energy to ensure societal resilience in times of conflict.

This comprehensive defense strategy reflects a broad political consensus and marks a shift from previous defense policies that prioritized international crisis management over national defense.