Swedish Defence Commission outlines historic military upgrades amid NATO membership

Since officially joining NATO on March 7, 2024, Sweden has embraced Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, which includes mutual defence guarantees among member nations. This integration into NATO represents the most consequential shift in Swedish security policy in over two centuries.

The Defence Commission’s recommendations are based on an analysis by the Supreme Commander of the Swedish Armed Forces and include several key initiatives: prioritizing the development of air defence systems to combat unmanned aerial vehicles, expanding NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) capabilities, and enhancing the interoperability with NATO’s command systems. Furthermore, the report proposes the establishment of two additional brigades, aiming for three mechanized brigades and one infantry brigade by 2030, and the formation of a new Norrland Infantry Regiment.

The report also suggests a progressive increase in conscription levels from the current 8,000 to 14,000 by 2035, improvements in naval operational capabilities, and the formation of new military units for territorial defence. Additionally, it calls for more frequent refresher training for conscripts and expanded officer education programs.

Financial projections indicate a substantial increase in military funding, with a total of SEK 52.8 billion allocated by 2030, of which SEK 20 billion stems from the new proposals. Civil defence is also set to see a significant funding boost, with an annual increase of at least SEK 15 billion starting in 2028.

The Commission has urged ongoing vigilance and flexibility in adapting these proposals based on global security dynamics, particularly concerning Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine. It also recommends that the Defence Ministry continue to monitor developments closely, ensuring that Sweden can effectively meet future security challenges as part of the NATO alliance.