Sweden’s armed forces (Försvarsmakten) and Saab have worked together on a secret project to develop a new kind of drone swarm technology. This innovation lets one soldier control up to 100 drones at the same time. As SVT reports, the system will soon be introduced into the Swedish Army, marking an important step in military advancements.
Speeding Up Defense Improvements
Defense Minister Pål Jonson has stressed the importance of upgrading Sweden’s defense systems quickly. Speaking at the annual People and Defense (Folk och Försvar) conference in Sälen, he said that Sweden needs to catch up in using drone technology to protect its security.
In just one year, the armed forces, along with FMV (Swedish Defence Materiel Administration), FOI (Swedish Defence Research Agency), and Saab, have created this new technology. Normally, a project like this would take five years to complete.
“This shows how fast we can develop new tools when it’s urgent,” Jonson said.
How the Drone Swarm Works
The system uses commercial drones that Saab has upgraded with advanced software. This software makes it possible for the drones to work together as a swarm. They can carry out missions like surveillance, tracking enemies, and gathering information.
“An example of this could be finding, locating and identifying hostile objects. The drones in the swarm can divide the tasks among themselves. They go home and charge their batteries when needed and then return to the task,” Jonson explained.
The project was partly inspired by lessons from the ongoing war in Ukraine, where technology has been used in creative and fast-moving ways
Upcoming Tests in Arctic Strike
The Swedish Army will test this new technology next month during the Arctic Strike military exercise. If successful, the drone swarms will be added to regular army operations. Both professional soldiers and conscripts will receive training on how to use the system.
Strengthening National Security
This new drone swarm system will help Sweden improve its defense and security. By leading in autonomous technology, Sweden is preparing for future challenges and ensuring it stays ahead in modern warfare.
