Look up – the defense against enemy drones is ready on site

Sweden is falling behind in establishing a robust defense against the escalating threat of enemy drones, despite having a readily available solution integrated into its existing infrastructure. Defense and technology experts argue that the country's 6,000 wind turbines, strategically positioned across the nation, could form a vital, cost-effective, and concrete national defense network.

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While other countries are arming themselves against the drone threat, Sweden is standing still – even though the solution is right in front of us.

The experts highlight that while proposals like the Moderates' plan for a 10,000-person drone defense force are a step forward, personnel alone are insufficient. An effective system requires range, advanced sensors, and integrated command systems for sustained operation. They propose leveraging wind turbines, which are already situated near critical infrastructure like transport routes, energy facilities, and ports, and possess existing power and communication links.

Technical demonstrations in Sweden have already proven that wind turbines can host radar, sensors, and drone systems without compromising their primary function or electricity production. Poland's Baltic Power offshore project serves as a model, integrating surveillance capabilities into wind turbines to enhance maritime and aerial situational awareness in the Baltic Sea.

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We have no time to wait any longer.

While Sweden possesses the necessary technology and international examples, the experts contend that the missing element is decisive political action. They emphasize that a ground-based drone defense system, while important, becomes reactive without early detection capabilities. Achieving effective early warning, a unified operational picture, robust communication, and rapid response, especially against fast-moving, low-altitude targets, necessitates an integrated approach that extends beyond ground-level defenses, a realization echoed by the European Union's own efforts to bolster drone threat countermeasures.

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Sweden lacks neither technology nor role models. What is missing is decisiveness.