Sweden's defense forces are currently building two new A26 submarines at the Kockums shipyard. The military currently operates four submarines total. Older models will be phased out as these new vessels enter service.
But the opposition Social Democratic Party says this is not enough. During a Friday press conference, party officials proposed developing an entirely new class of submarines. They did not specify the exact cost but indicated the project would require several billion Swedish kronor.
The existing A26 submarine program, also known as the Blekinge-class, has faced multiple delays. The project is running years behind its original schedule. These setbacks have created concerns about Sweden's underwater defense capabilities.
Sweden maintains a strong submarine tradition despite being a relatively small nation. The country's strategic position in the Baltic Sea makes submarine capability crucial for national security. Swedish submarines are known for their advanced stealth technology and ability to operate in challenging shallow waters.
The proposed expansion comes amid heightened regional security concerns. Neighboring countries have also been strengthening their naval forces. Finland recently joined NATO, and other Baltic nations are upgrading their maritime defenses.
Defense analysts note that submarine construction represents a major economic commitment. Such projects typically span many years and require specialized workforce training. The Kockums shipyard in Malmö has been building Swedish submarines for decades, making it a key national asset.
What does this mean for Sweden's defense budget? The military already faces multiple modernization demands across all branches. Adding another submarine class would require reallocating substantial resources or increasing overall defense spending.
The timing of this proposal raises political questions. As the main opposition party, the Social Democrats are positioning themselves on national security ahead of future elections. Their push for expanded submarine capacity signals defense will be a key campaign issue.
International observers will watch how this proposal develops. Sweden's submarine capabilities have attracted foreign interest in the past. Several countries have considered purchasing Swedish-designed submarines for their own fleets.
The debate over submarine expansion reflects broader questions about Sweden's military role. How much naval power does the country need in today's security environment? And what balance should strike between different military branches? These questions will likely dominate defense discussions in coming months.