Stockholm, September 2025 — The Swedish government has unveiled sweeping increases in defence and civil security spending in its upcoming 2026 budget, reflecting growing concerns over threats from Russia and instability in the Baltic region.
Major Military Spending Increase
In its 2026 budget proposal, Sweden plans to raise military spending by about 26.6 billion Swedish crowns (roughly USD $2.9 billion), bringing defence outlays to approximately 2.8% of GDP. This represents an 18% increase over the 2025 defence budget. The government has indicated that defence expenditures could rise further to 3.1% by 2028 as part of a longer-term security strategy.
Military Aid to Ukraine Strengthened
Simultaneously, Sweden has committed another 9.2 billion kronor worth of military support to Ukraine. This package includes the procurement of 18 Archer artillery systems, along with drones, ammunition, and logistical support aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s capacity. Officials say that such support is not only about solidarity but also about deterring aggression that could affect Sweden and its neighbours.
Augmenting Civil Defence
Beyond military hardware and foreign aid, Sweden is also investing heavily in internal resilience. The government is adding 3 billion kronor to its civil defence budget in the autumn budget cycle. According to Defence Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin, this increase is driven by deteriorating security conditions in the Nordic region. The funds are to be used for strengthening civil preparedness, emergency response systems, and possibly upgrading infrastructure that can withstand disruptions.
Strategic Rationale and Backlash
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has framed these moves as necessary in the face of Russia’s “multi-dimensional” threats, including potential Arctic instability and hybrid attacks. The proposals enjoy broad support from Sweden’s right-wing coalition government, though some critics, including opposition parties and budget watchdogs, warn of the fiscal burden if economic conditions worsen. Others ask whether such military investments sufficiently account for softer forms of security (cybersecurity, climate-related disruptions, etc.).
Outlook
If approved, these budgetary changes would represent the most substantial rearmament and civil security investment in Sweden since the end of the Cold War. This trajectory also brings Sweden more in line with NATO expectations, even as the country navigates its role in the alliance following its accession in 2024.
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