Sweden invests $370 mln to counter drone threat amid hybrid attacks in Europe
Photo: Sweden allocates $370 million for counter-drone systems (Getty Images)
Sweden is preparing for aerial threats amid a wave of "hybrid attacks" across Europe. The government is allocating 3.5 billion Swedish kronor (over $367 million) for counter-drone systems, according to Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson.
The minister said Sweden is investing 3.5 billion kronor in additional counter-drone systems. This includes the purchase of weapons to shoot down drones, strike UAVs at air bases, and sensors to create interference.
"This will significantly strengthen our defense capabilities," Jonson emphasized.
In addition, Sweden plans to purchase more spare parts and equipment for combat aircraft to increase the readiness of its Air Force.
The minister also noted that recent incidents involving spy drones have served as a reminder of the growing role of aerial threats in modern warfare.
“We must protect ourselves from this,” the defense chief stressed.
Drones over Europe
Recently, several European countries have recorded flights of unidentified drones over strategic and military sites, raising concerns within NATO.
In Denmark, Norway, France, Germany, and Sweden, drones were spotted near airports, military bases, and critical infrastructure.
A few days ago, several drones were detected over Oslo, circling in the Eastern suburbs, forcing Gardermoen Airport to suspend operations temporarily.
In Germany, in the city of Geilenkirchen, an unidentified drone was also recorded flying over the air base where NATO’s reconnaissance aircraft are stationed. Similar incidents have been registered in other countries of the region.
Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) directly link a number of these incidents to Russia’s hybrid campaign. According to their assessment, the Kremlin is testing NATO’s air defense responses and gauging the political resolve of EU countries.
Ukrainian intelligence, for its part, has determined that many suspicious drones are launched from tankers belonging to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.”
In response to the threat, several countries are already strengthening their security measures.
For example, Germany has begun preparing a draft law that would allow the police to shoot down drones violating no-fly zones or threatening security.
