Stockholm, Sweden — August 20, 2025 (Agencies): Sweden has launched a sweeping rearmament initiative, marking its most ambitious defence overhaul since the Second World War. Following its formal accession to NATO in 2024, the country is rapidly transforming its military posture, with Defence Minister Pål Jonson confirming that 43% of the national defence budget is now dedicated to procurement and acquisition.
In an exclusive interview with Janes, Jonson detailed the scope of Sweden’s defence modernization, which includes tripling procurement figures over recent years and doubling overall defence investment within four years. Sweden’s procurement strategy spans air, land, and sea. The Swedish Air Force is replacing its Gripen C/D fighters with the advanced Gripen E model, featuring enhanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and extended range capabilities. The Royal Swedish Navy is constructing four Luleå-class corvettes and integrating two Blekinge-class (A26) submarines to boost undersea defence. On the ground, Sweden is acquiring 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks, upgrading existing Leopard 2 units, and procuring 50 CV9035 MkIIIC infantry fighting vehicles.
“We are laser-focused on strengthening our ground capabilities,” Jonson said. “Our air force remains the backbone of Swedish defence, and we are reinforcing it with cutting-edge platforms.”
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced in March that Sweden will raise defence spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2030, with a long-term goal of 5%, including 1.5% for non-core defence investments such as infrastructure and cybersecurity. The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has already placed orders exceeding SEK 67.7 billion this year, with total authorizations projected to reach SEK 244 billion by 2025.
Sweden’s defence overhaul is designed to enhance interoperability with NATO allies, particularly in the Baltic region. The adoption of Leopard 2A8 tanks—also used by Germany and Norway—ensures logistical synergy, while the Gripen E fleet strengthens airspace security across Northern Europe. As geopolitical tensions persist, Sweden’s accelerated procurement drive signals a decisive shift toward resilience, deterrence, and alliance readiness, positioning the country as a formidable contributor to NATO’s collective defence.