Sweden is looking to acquire long-range cruise missiles capable of striking targets deep inside other countries, as part of efforts to bolster deterrence against Russia’s growing military capabilities.

In a report submitted to the government this week, the Swedish Armed Forces outlined a desire for missile systems with a range of up to 2,000 km (1,243 miles), enabling strikes against military installations and critical infrastructure well behind enemy lines.

“The experience from the war in Ukraine indicates that Russia is vigorously developing its long-range capabilities, both with cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and long-range drones,” Defence Minister Pal Jonson told Reuters on Tuesday. “We must build a stronger deterrent against that threat.”

Currently, the Swedish Air Force has ordered Swedish-German Taurus cruise missiles, which have a range of about 500 km, for its Gripen fighter jets. Jonson noted, however, that Sweden may consider additional systems to achieve the desired reach.

The report also highlighted expectations of increased Russian military capacity over the next five years, urging Sweden to enhance its air defence and intelligence capabilities, including drones and reconnaissance satellites.

The move reflects Stockholm’s strategic calculation: the distance between Moscow and Stockholm is around 1,000 km, underscoring the potential need for missiles capable of hitting high-value targets deep inside Russian territory in a crisis scenario.