Sweden to boost anti-drone defences amid growing threats

Sweden will invest 3.5 billion Swedish crowns ($367.11 million) in more anti-drone systems, its defence minister said on Friday, citing a growing threat posed by aerial violations.



A wave of drone sightings has rattled European aviation, sparking concerns about hybrid attacks potentially targeting Ukraine's allies in Europe, though Russia has denied involvement.



"Recent violations and drone sightings are a reminder that threats from the air are an increasingly large part of modern warfare," Defence Minister Pal Jonson said on X. "We must defend ourselves against this."



The Nordic NATO member will acquire systems to shoot down drones, deploy hunter drones for air bases and install jamming sensors, among other measures, the minister added.



Sweden will spend an additional 1.5 billion crowns to enhance the capabilities of its JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft system, the government said in a statement.