Sweden has introduced a defense bill that raises military spending to 2.4% of GDP next year, responding to perceived threats from Russia, according to Defense Minister Pal Jonson reports Digi24.
He stated, "The risk of an attack cannot be ruled out," emphasizing that Russia poses a significant threat to Sweden and NATO as a whole.
Although Russia's military capabilities are currently constrained due to its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Jonson noted that it remains willing to take significant military and political risks.
Under the new plan, defense spending will increase by 10% next year as part of a long-term strategy.
Sweden will allocate an additional 170 billion kronor (about 15 billion euros) for military expenditures and 35.7 billion kronor for civil defense by 2030, raising the total defense budget to 2.6% of GDP by 2028, exceeding NATO's target of 2%.
This renewed focus on defense reflects a shift from Sweden's historical neutrality during the Cold War.
Jonson highlighted that the aim is to prepare Swedes for potential wartime conditions and to enhance the country's resilience, including its energy, transport, healthcare, and financial systems.
The military enhancements include investments in armored vehicles, cruise missile capabilities, and new reconnaissance aircraft.
The armed forces will increase recruitment to 10,000 soldiers annually by 2030 and expand the military's total size by approximately 27,000 personnel, establishing four new brigades.
