Sweden is preparing for its largest intake of military recruits in several decades, with the country’s armed forces planning to enlist more than 9,000 people during the 2026/27 conscription campaign.

Military service in the kingdom applies to both men and women once they reach the age of 18.

The expanded intake comes as Sweden moves to increase the size of its armed forces and strengthen its military capabilities. The authorities also plan to replenish stocks of weapons and other essential supplies.

Through 2030, the Swedish Ministry of Defence intends to direct a significant share of its resources toward restoring and modernizing existing equipment. The program also covers extending its service life, purchasing ammunition, reinforcing air defenses and rebuilding supply reserves.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson previously said defense spending would rise substantially. He described the program as the largest rearmament of the country’s forces since the Cold War.