Sweden boosting military spending amid heightened security concerns and NATO membership

Sweden should increase its military budget by roughly $5 billion by 2030 as a response to heightened security concerns and its recent entry into NATO. The recommendation comes from a parliamentary committee made up of representatives across all political parties, who acknowledged the elevated danger in light of Sweden’s alliance with NATO following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year. “An attack against Sweden or our allies cannot be ruled out,” the commission warned as it unveiled its report entitled “Strong defense capability, Sweden as an ally.” The proposal suggests expanding air defenses to counter unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles while increasing personnel in naval forces. Furthermore, the number of conscripts will see incremental raises leading up 2032 to roughly twelve thousand – with eight thousand currently serving. Norway has already announced plans for an increase from nine thousand to thirteen-and-a half thousand conscripted soldiers by twenty thirty-six; and Denmark wants a surge in mandatory military service, extending it to women while increasing the duration of training from four months to eleven months last month. Sweden’s current defense budget stands at around $11 billion. The center-right coalition led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson is expected to adopt most recommendations outlined in this report presented on Friday.