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Sweden Commits 15 Billion SEK to Short-Range Air Defenses for Civilian Protection

The push prioritizes mobile defenses for civilian sites after vulnerabilities exposed by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson attends a press conference in Berlin, Germany, September 23, 2025. REUTERS/Lisi Niesner

Overview

  • Defense Minister Pal Jonson said the funding will buy short-range systems to shield cities, bridges, power plants and other critical infrastructure.
  • The systems are intended to counter drones, helicopters and low-flying fighter aircraft, with mobility tailored to designated geographic areas.
  • A first order for the new equipment is expected in the first quarter of 2026, according to Sweden Herald as cited by Ukrinform.
  • The move builds on earlier procurements, including RBS 70 NG paired with Giraffe 1X radars and roughly 2.1 billion SEK in Saab sensor and command-and-control contracts signed in November 2025.
  • Sweden’s layered approach also includes IRIS‑T short-range and IRIS‑T SLM medium-range systems acquired through the European Sky Shield Initiative.