Sweden to Boost Defense Spending by $2.9 Billion in 2026, Citing Russian Threats

The Swedish government will increase defense spending by 26.6 billion kronor ($2.9 billion) next year, raising it to 2.8 percent of GDP, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, according to a report by DW on September 15.

Kristersson called the move “the next major step” in strengthening Sweden’s military.

Funds will go toward rocket artillery, army vehicles, naval vessels, and additional air defense systems, according to DW. Defense Minister Pål Jonson emphasized that the war in Ukraine has been “decisive” for Sweden’s security and that these investments are necessary given today’s geopolitical challenges.

Sweden aims to steadily raise defense spending to 3.5 percent of GDP by 2030. Kristersson noted the country is on track to meet that goal. The prime minister also cited the recent Russian drone incursions into Poland on September 10 as a serious escalation, likely intended to test NATO’s capabilities.

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Since Russia’s attempted annexation of Crimea in 2014, Sweden has gradually increased military spending, reinstated compulsory service in 2017, and joined NATO in 2024.

Previously, it was reported that Sweden had announced a comprehensive military and civil support package for Ukraine, worth a total of $836 million, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson wrote in posts on X.

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