Bergqvist clarified that this approach is rooted in deterrence rather than preemptive action. The strategic review was partially driven by lessons from the war in Ukraine, where the inability to prevent an enemy from gaining air superiority proved critical. Consequently, Sweden intends to supplement its established doctrine of rapidly relocating and dispersing aircraft with the specific capability to “punish” an aggressor on its own soil. Deep strikes against logistics hubs, command centers, and air bases are intended to disrupt or slow a Russian operation in its early stages, a capability Ukraine reportedly lacked in 2022.
An attack must come at a high cost. A potential aggressor must understand that a war would not be confined to Swedish territory.
— Air Force Col. Carl Bergqvist
A central element of this new Air Force concept is the integration of Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missiles with JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets. The Taurus missile has a range of more than 500 kilometers, can fly at altitudes as low as 50 meters, and is effective against fortified targets. While these weapons are part of the current planning framework, Swedish armed forces have also submitted documents to the government requesting the acquisition of systems with significantly longer ranges. These proposed acquisitions include cruise and ballistic missiles capable of striking targets up to 2,000 kilometers away. For context, Moscow is located approximately 1,200 kilometers from Stockholm.
Beyond long-range strike capabilities, the new Air Force concept includes several defensive and operational adjustments. The plan calls for the use of highways as improvised runways to enhance survivability, alongside strengthened air defense systems and expanded counter-drone measures. Intelligence-gathering capabilities are also set to expand through the deployment of unmanned aircraft and satellites. These developments occur against a backdrop of heightened security concerns in the region. On Sept. 24, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe Gen. Alexus Grynkewich stated that the alliance is increasing intelligence sharing in response to a series of sabotage incidents believed to be linked to Russia.
Regional security assessments have also shifted in recent weeks. Denmark’s Defense Intelligence Service noted on the same day that there is a “small but growing risk” that Russia could launch a limited military offensive against one or more neighboring NATO countries in the coming months. As Sweden moves to integrate these long-range strike capabilities into its operational doctrine, the alliance continues to monitor these emerging threats while reinforcing its collective defense posture.
