Sweden has embarked on a significant military modernization program, highlighted by a SEK17.2 billion ($1.54 billion) investment in its tank fleet. This substantial deal with KNDS Deutschland will see the acquisition of 44 brand-new Leopard 2A8 tanks and the comprehensive upgrade of 66 existing Leopard 2 tanks, known as Stridsvagn 122 in Swedish service.
The delivery of the 44 new Leopard 2A8 tanks is slated to occur between 2028 and 2031. Concurrently, a comprehensive modernization program will be undertaken for 66 existing Stridsvagn 122 tanks, with the objective of achieving performance parity with the newly acquired Leopard 2A8s.
According to reports, the new tanks will be designated Stridsvagn 123B, and the modernized versions will be designated Stridsvagn 123A.
Furthermore, the Swedish Armed Forces will also modernize its CV90 combat vehicles, addressing accumulated maintenance needs and enhancing their combat readiness in light of the evolving security environment. This SEK5 billion ($448 million) effort will run through 2030.
“The deteriorating security situation means that we are now carrying out the largest rearmament of the defense since the 1950s, and this investment in tanks and combat vehicles is an important part of that,” said Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson.
The total investment in these projects exceeds SEK 22 billion ($1.97 billion), underscoring the Swedish government’s commitment to strengthening national defense. Upon completion, the Swedish Armed Forces will possess 154 modern tanks, significantly enhancing its combat power and ensuring its ability to effectively address current and future security challenges.
A military history enthusiast, Richard began at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet grew in importance as a research tool, he helped design the company's Forecast Intelligence Center and currently coordinates the EMarket Alert newsletters for clients. Richard also manages social media efforts, including two new blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, covering defense systems and international issues, and Flight Plan, which focuses on commercial aviation and space systems. For over 30 years, Richard has authored the Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International) services. The two books provide detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database that tracks all the contractors involved in the programs covered in the FI library. More recently he was appointed Manager, Information Services Group (ISG), a new unit that encompasses developing outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.
