The Swedish Armed Forces (Försvarsmakten) are structured into the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Home Guard, with additional support and logistics units. As of 2024, Sweden maintains approximately 88,000 personnel, including active-duty members, conscripts, and reserves. The nation has recently reinstated conscription to bolster its defense capabilities, reflecting a commitment to national and regional security.
Demographics and Economic Indicators
Sweden has a population of approximately 10.5 million people and covers a land area of 450,295 square kilometers. In 2024, the defense budget is projected to be around $11.3 billion USD, accounting for approximately 2.2% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This marks a significant increase from previous years, aligning with Sweden’s goal to meet or exceed the NATO target of 2% of GDP for defense spending.
Swedish Army
Size and Structure
The Swedish Army comprises mechanized infantry, armored units, artillery, and specialized troops. The force is organized into several brigades and battalions, designed for rapid deployment and adaptability across various terrains. The reintroduction of conscription has enhanced the Army’s manpower and operational readiness.
Equipment and Modernization
The Army’s inventory includes:
- Main Battle Tanks: Leopard 2A5 and 2A6 models, with ongoing upgrades to enhance capabilities.
- Infantry Fighting Vehicles: CV90 series, providing mobility and protection for mechanized infantry units.
- Artillery: Archer Artillery System, a modern self-propelled howitzer offering rapid deployment and high mobility.
- Air Defense Systems: RBS 70 man-portable air-defense systems and plans to acquire advanced surface-to-air missile systems to strengthen air defense.
Swedish Navy
Fleet Composition
The Swedish Navy operates a range of vessels, including:
- Corvettes: Visby-class stealth corvettes equipped for anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare.
- Submarines: Gotland-class and Södermanland-class submarines, with plans to introduce the new A26 Blekinge-class submarines to enhance underwater capabilities.
- Mine Countermeasure Vessels: Specialized ships designed for mine detection and clearance operations.
Modernization Efforts
The Navy is undergoing significant upgrades, including:
- Visby-class Corvettes: Enhancements to existing vessels, including the integration of advanced air defense systems.
- New Corvettes: Initiation of the Luleå-class corvette program to expand surface combatant capabilities.
- Submarine Fleet: Development and procurement of the A26 Blekinge-class submarines to replace older models and enhance stealth and combat capabilities.
Swedish Air Force
Aircraft Inventory
The Air Force’s fleet includes:
- Fighter Aircraft: JAS 39 Gripen C/D multirole fighters, with plans to upgrade to the E variant to enhance performance and interoperability.
- Transport Aircraft: C-130H Hercules for tactical airlift operations.
- Surveillance Aircraft: GlobalEye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) systems to enhance situational awareness.
Future Acquisitions
Sweden is planning to enhance its air capabilities with:
- Gripen E Fighters: Procurement of the latest variant to replace older models and ensure technological superiority.
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): Introduction of advanced drones for reconnaissance and surveillance missions.
Defense Modernization Initiatives
In response to evolving security challenges, Sweden has initiated several modernization programs:
- Increased Defense Spending: Commitment to raising defense expenditure to 2.6% of GDP by 2028, reflecting a substantial investment in military capabilities.
- Personnel Expansion: Plans to increase the armed forces to approximately 115,000 personnel by 2030, including both professional soldiers and conscripts, to enhance operational readiness.
- Infrastructure Development: Investments in modernizing military bases and facilities to support new equipment and improve operational readiness.
