Counter-drone in Sweden: government provides more than 315 million euros for the armed forces

Sweden is investing more than 315 million euros in the counter-drone capabilities of the Swedish Armed Forces, the country's government announced. This brings lead times for the armed forces forward by eight years.

The same press release also announced an expansion of the capabilities of the JAS 39 Gripen. A further 135 million euros are earmarked, taken from funds reserved in the spring budget for “expedient acquisitions”.

Counter-drone: sensors, jammers and interceptor systems

Minister for Defence Pål Jonson said: “The government is now taking steps to make counter-drone capabilities operational quickly and to increase the availability of our combat aircraft”. He added: “There is a considerable need for new anti-drone capabilities, and we are shortening lead times by eight years. This will lead to greater security for the Swedish Armed Forces and for Sweden.”

The money is to enable the Swedish Armed Forces to counter drone threats much more effectively; procurement can thus be brought forward by around eight years. The focus is on weapons and sensors against hostile drones. There are also plans to buy warning devices and jammers in large quantities – both portable and vehicle-mounted – as well as interceptor systems that protect air bases, for example.

Erik Slottner, Minister for Public Administration, stated: “The government has made extensive investments in defence during this term of office. Now we are strengthening the Swedish Armed Forces' ability to deal with drones. This is a very important decision to protect us against the growing threat from drones”.

Greater availability for the JAS 39 Gripen

Beyond counter-drone measures, government money is also flowing into expanded capabilities of the JAS 39 Gripen combat aircraft system. Additional spare parts, mission equipment and base equipment are being procured, intended to increase aircraft availability. Operations from temporary road bases are also to be improved in future.

Almost at the same time, manufacturer Saab reported that it had agreed an extension of the Gripen maintenance contract with the Swedish Armed Forces. Saab's maintenance and support of the aircraft are thus secured until at least the end of 2027.