War on the Rocks Getting Faster, Stronger, Ready: Sweden's Defense Minister on Reform and Resolve
Dec 11, 2025
Pål Jonson, Sweden's Minister of Defense, discusses Sweden's pivotal role in European security post-NATO accession. He elaborates on Sweden's impressive $7B support package for Ukraine and how rapid procurement is reshaping military readiness. Jonson emphasizes the urgency behind tripling defense spending, and the challenges of converting economic strength into combat power swiftly. He also highlights the importance of collaboration in defense production and the need for standardized munitions to enhance military capabilities across Europe.
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Support For Ukraine As Strategic Investment
- Sweden treats supporting Ukraine as both moral duty and strategic investment in its own security.
- Rapid deliveries to Ukraine taught Sweden to cut red tape and adapt platforms quickly.
Force Faster Industry Delivery
- Pressure industry to deliver within 0–24 months and prioritize fast producers.
- Revamp acquisition to enable quick procurement based on wartime lessons.
Money Increased, Time Shrunk
- Europe now has more money but far less time to build deterrence and defense.
- Transforming economic capacity into combat power requires accelerating acquisition timelines.
