Sweden has shifted its defense strategy away from relying heavily on the United States, accelerating domestic arms and equipment production. The shift comes after Washington approved a €830 million sale of 12 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters to Stockholm in May 2024. However, with Donald Trump‘s return to the White House, Sweden’s government, led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, has implemented an autonomous rearmament program. Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson emphasized the need for European NATO members to strengthen defense ties independently of the United States, investing more in military capabilities like space and satellite technology. Sweden, which joined NATO in March 2024 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has increased its military spending to 2.2% of GDP, exceeding NATO’s 2% target. Jonson stressed that a robust domestic defense industry is crucial for credible deterrence. Swedish defense company Saab, controlled by the Wallenberg family, has already started producing key military equipment for Sweden’s armed forces, including the Gripen fighter jet, the GlobalEye surveillance aircraft, the Blekinge submarine, and the Sea Wasp unmanned underwater vehicle, intended to replace American weaponry. Jonson warned that a potential reduction in the U.S. military presence in Europe is likely, reinforcing Sweden’s commitment to the ReArm Europe initiative. He also highlighted the success of Swedish-made weapons supplied to Ukraine, such as maritime weapons systems, fast assault boats, and anti-tank missiles, which have proven effective against Russian forces. Saab has also secured framework agreements with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to supply military equipment directly to NATO. Beyond defense, Sweden is competing with Norway to establish a space industry in the far north. The country has set up a space base in Kiruna, described as Europe’s “polar gateway” to space. Although Sweden’s first military satellite was launched from California last year, Stockholm aims to achieve self-reliance in space technology, similar to its defense strategy.
