This is how one soldier can control a hundred drones: new technology in Sweden

Like the Swedish channel Swedish Television (SVT) reports, Sweden has developed groundbreaking drone swarm technology in collaboration with defense company Saab. The project, completed in less than a year, allows a single soldier to control over 100 drones simultaneously.

Fast progress for defense

The new technology was developed in a secret project led by the Swedish Ministry of Defense. Defense Minister Pål Jonson emphasized the urgency during the People and Defense Conference in Sälen: “The defense upgrade must move faster to ensure our security.”

The new drone swarm technology uses commercially available drones that have been upgraded by Saab with specialized software. This makes it possible for the drones to act autonomously and form swarms.

Commitment and skills

The innovative drone swarm is scheduled to take part in military exercises in just a month Arctic Strike be tested. After successful testing, introduction into the Swedish army is planned for this year, including training soldiers and conscripts in how to use the technology.

The drone swarms can independently take on missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance and the location and identification of enemy objects. According to Minister Jonson, the drones can divide their tasks between themselves, charge batteries independently and then return to the mission.

Potential for attacks

In addition to the monitoring function, the software is so flexible that it can also be equipped with additional capabilities. The drones could carry bombs and attack enemy targets in a coordinated manner.

Lessons from Ukraine

Army chief Jonny Lindfors explained that the development was heavily influenced by the experience of the Ukraine war. “What’s unique is not the drone itself, but our ability to continually update it and stay relevant,” says Lindfors.

Saab CEO Micael Johansson and Defense Minister Jonson highlighted the importance of the project for Sweden’s defense strategy. With the new technology, Sweden wants to strengthen its security situation and be prepared for future challenges.