Sweden is investing nine billion kronor in German-made IRIS-T SLM air defense systems, highlighting its focus on military modernization. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasized the significance of this acquisition for Sweden's defense capabilities, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions, particularly the war in Ukraine. With plans to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2030 following its application for NATO membership, Sweden is reversing decades of military non-alignment. The government aims to allocate an additional 300 billion kronor over the next decade to bolster its defense posture.
"This air defence system is the first we are acquiring and perhaps one of the most important capabilities Sweden has acquired since our Patriot purchase in the 1990s."
"The war in Ukraine has been an eye opener for the importance of a strong air defence."
"The investment was part of the rapid rearmament that is already underway."
"Sweden's government announced in March that it wanted to add some 300 billion kronor to its defence spending over the next decade."
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