Sweden Boosts Army Air Defense with 3.5 Billion Kronor Iris-T System Acquisition

Sweden has taken a major step to strengthen its military air defense by signing a contract worth 2 billion kronor for the purchase of the Iris-T air defense system, also known as fire unit 98. Additionally, 1.5 billion kronor will be invested in vehicles and support systems required to mount the missiles, bringing the total investment to 3.5 billion kronor. This move, orchestrated by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (Försvarets materielverk or FMV), was announced on November 25, 2025.

Defense Minister Pål Jonson emphasized the strategic importance of this acquisition at a press conference held at the Air Defense Regiment in Halmstad. He called it a significant enhancement to Sweden’s air defense capabilities, particularly in countering low-altitude threats such as fighter jets, cruise missiles, and various types of drones. The radar systems included in the acquisition can detect even small drones the size of a milk carton from over four kilometers away.

These newly procured air defense units will be assigned to the Norrbotten Regiment (I19) and the Skaraborg Regiment (P4), addressing the need for four platoons with short-range air defense capability. The systems are expected to become operational by 2028 and will be central in completing the capability of Sweden’s four brigades, especially those positioned in the northern region of Norrland.

This purchase complements previously ordered longer-range Iris-T systems and forms part of a broader defense upgrade strategy influenced by NATO’s requirements and lessons learned from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Over 20 billion kronor worth of defense orders have been placed in recent months, underscoring Sweden’s commitment to strengthening its national security. The funding for this investment was previously allocated in the defense budget, ensuring a smooth execution of the procurement process.

In summary, this significant investment aims to enhance Sweden’s air defense architecture by improving detection, mobility, and interception capabilities against contemporary aerial threats, ensuring robust protection for Swedish forces in the years ahead.