FMV has signed an agreement with Swedish Space Corporation (SSC) to establish a basic capability for satellite launches from Esrange Space Center outside Kiruna. The agreement is part of the government's decision from October 2024, where approximately one billion kronor was allocated until 2032 to develop Sweden's space capability, FMV and SSC state in press releases.

The purpose of the initiative is to strengthen Sweden's authority in the space domain and increase the robustness of the functions and capabilities that satellites deliver to the Swedish Armed Forces. FMV describes this as a first step in creating a national capacity for the launch of defence satellites.

– This is an important step in our effort to establish a leading capability to launch satellites from mainland Europe. It will be of great significance for Sweden, as well as for NATO and Europe, says Charlotta Sund, CEO of SSC.

The ongoing project establishment at Esrange will also include the expansion of the infrastructure at the space base to ensure that launches can be conducted at a pace that maintains the Swedish Armed Forces' space-based services and capabilities.

Links:

SSC's press release
FMV's press release