Sweden plans to increase its armed forces by approximately 27,000 personnel by 2030, bringing the total to around 115,000, which will include both professional soldiers and conscripts. This expansion is part of a broader initiative to enhance defense spending, as announced by the government on Tuesday.

Last month, the center-right coalition revealed its intention to allocate an additional 170 billion Swedish crowns (approximately $16.41 billion) over the next five years, which will raise defense spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2028, up from the current 2.2%.

Defence Minister Pal Jonson emphasized that this legislation is crucial for improving military resilience and must be implemented swiftly, especially for NATO‘s newest member. He stated, “We must be able to respond more robustly and effectively to the evolving global landscape, particularly in light of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine,” during a press conference. In September, the government announced a 10% increase in defense spending for the next year, amounting to 138 billion crowns, which corresponds to 2.4% of GDP.

The Navy is set to enhance its fleet by upgrading its five Visby class corvettes with air defense systems and will initiate the acquisition of three larger Lulea Class corvettes. The Air Force will receive three additional Globaleye surveillance aircraft, upgraded versions of the JAS Gripen fighter jets, and Black Hawk helicopters.

Meanwhile, the Army plans to increase its inventory of tanks and armored vehicles, expand its drone capabilities, and acquire more Archer air-defense systems, according to government announcements.