Sweden launches first military satellite to monitor Russia

Sweden’s first dedicated military satellite has been successfully launched into orbit, marking the start of a new surveillance capability focused on monitoring Russia, public broadcaster SVT reports.

The satellite, the first of around ten planned for deployment, will gather intelligence on military targets inside Russia and detect potential threats such as troop movements. It was launched Sunday from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California by SpaceX.

Anders Sundeman, head of the Swedish Armed Forces’ space operations, called the launch a “major capability boost,” giving Sweden independent control over a reconnaissance sensor with long-range monitoring abilities.

“We currently rely on allied or commercial satellite imagery,” Sundeman said. “Within two years, Sweden will have its own constellation of about ten military satellites orbiting Earth.”

The accelerated timeline reflects Sweden’s NATO membership and the need for extended intelligence reach, he explained. New long-range weapons in Sweden’s arsenal also require deeper targeting data, including inside Russian territory.

The washing machine-sized satellite will take about a month to reach its operational orbit. During its first year, manufacturer Planet Labs will assist in managing it, including collision avoidance with other satellites or space debris. Eventually, operations will shift to a new Space Operation Center at the Air Force headquarters in Uppsala, staffed by around ten personnel.

While the satellites lack offensive capabilities, Sundeman noted that space is becoming an increasingly contested domain. “Countries are acquiring offensive space capabilities—this is an area growing in relevance,” he said.

Sweden’s satellite imagery will be shared within NATO’s collective surveillance network. The country also plans to develop its own launch capability from Esrange Space Center in Kiruna, as Europe currently lacks independent satellite launch capacity.

Between 12,000 and 15,000 military and commercial satellites are estimated to be in orbit today. Sweden’s fleet will include both optical satellites (from US-based Planet Labs) and radar-equipped units (from Finland’s ICEYE).