COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — Sweden should increase its military budget by nearly 54 billion kronor ($5 billion) until 2030 to strengthen its air defenses and beef up the number of conscripts, a Swedish parliamentary committee recommended Friday.
The Scandinavian country joined the NATO alliance in March, moving away from a decades-long policy of neutrality in the wake of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The report by the Defense Committee which is made up of representatives of the eight political parties sitting in the Swedish parliament, said that NATO membership and the serious security situation require higher ambitions. “An armed attack against Sweden or our allies cannot be ruled out,” the commission said in its report entitled “Strong defense capability, Sweden as an ally.”
Sweden’s air defense must also be expanded to meet threats from unmanned flying craft, more hunting and cruise missiles must be purchased and the navy should receive more personnel, according to the nearly 300-page report which also suggested that the number of conscripts should gradually be increased to 12,000 in 2032. Presently there are about 8,000 conscripts in Sweden.
Florida sues ACC seeking records in dispute with FSU over conference exit fees
Victory for free speech in the face of Brussels bullies! Nigel Farage returns to right
Noah Eagle picked by NBC as play
More than 100 inmates break free from a Nigerian prison after heavy rains
Should I cancel my holiday to Dubai? As UAE is lashed by year
Victory for free speech in the face of Brussels bullies! Nigel Farage returns to right
Pentagon leaders press Congress for Ukraine funding, saying battlefield situation is dire
Labour refuses to commit to matching Rishi Sunak's defence spending pledge of 2.5% of GDP by 2030
Police confirm Missouri officer fired fatal shot that killed man who allegedly shot another man
ACC Spring Wrap: League champ Florida State and ACC deal with quarterback changes
Jontay Porter banned from NBA after gambling probe