This article is published in Aerospace Daily & Defense Report part of Aviation Week Intelligence Network (AWIN), and is complimentary through Aug 24, 2026. For information on becoming an AWIN Member to access more content like this, click here.
LONDON—Sweden aims to launch its first Iceye synthetic aperture radar before year-end as part of an accelerated push to field what is expected to be a growing fleet with Earth observation capabilities, says the Swedish Armed Forces' space chief.
Sweden initially planned to field Earth observation capabilities in the 2030 timeframe, but pushed that up four years given the “severe security situation,” says Rear Adm. Anders Sundeman, who has the odd distinction of being the only admiral in the Swedish Air Force which oversees space issues in the military.
Sweden in May launched the first of Planet Labs electro-optical satellites.
The service plans an initial fleet of about 10 Earth observation satellites, roughly split equally between the vendors, Sundeman told reporters on the eve of the Farnborough Airshow. Sweden has options for more satellites, he noted, and likely will field additional Earth observation satellites.
The acceleration of space programs aligns them better with air force modernization, including introduction of the Saab Gripen E fighter and GlobalEye airborne early warning systems, as well as the expedited fielding of the MBDA Taurus cruise missile now due for delivery “soon,” Air Force Chief Maj. Gen. Jonas Wikman said.
Wikman noted that the Swedish Air Force is focusing increasingly on deep strike capabilities and the eyes in space will support that push.
Sundeman said the satellites will support Swedish but also alliance needs. The service also is looking to coordinate with allies to try to ensure they don’t duplicate intelligence collection.
Sweden will operate the satellites, though during the initial standup period those will be contractor flown until the military is ready, Sundeman said. Sweden also is building up its data exploitation capability. Accelerating the fielding of the satellite capabilities means a lot now is happening in parallel, but Sundeman stressed, “We will have the total control of the chain.”
Sweden will likely field other Earth observation capabilities, Sundeman said. The armed forces likely will also invest in follow-on military satellite communication capabilities, having launched the GNA-3 test satellite, though detailed plans are still in development, he indicted.
Related Content
