The government is investing 386 million in Esrange

The government announced today that it is investing a total of SEK 400 million in developing Sweden as a space nation. This will strengthen the Esrange space base in Kiruna and Norrbotten's strategic role within the EU.

– Esrange in Kiruna is the only operational space base on the entire continent, which is located within the EU. Therefore, we need to strengthen our capabilities in the space area, says Minister of Civil Affairs Erik Slottner in a press release.

The government wants to strengthen the national launch capability and is therefore providing increased funding to both the Swedish Space Agency and SSC Space AB. The announcement comes at a time when Esrange is developing rapidly and when Europe's need for its own, stable space infrastructure is increasing. In its press release, the government emphasizes the growing importance of space for security and defense.

– In the future, Sweden's defense will be strengthened to a greater extent via space. The addition strengthens the combined defense capabilities of both Sweden and our allies, says Minister of Defense Pål Jonson.

A key European region

Esrange's unique position makes Norrbotten strategically important as Europe seeks to reduce its dependence on launch sites outside the Union. Region Norrbotten has long been pushing the issue of the need for investments in the space sector, most recently at the Norra Scen seminar in Stockholm in February.

– Norrbotten has long pointed to the need for space investments. Now we see how the region's role in the EU's space work is becoming both clearer and increasingly important, says Janus Brandin, Regional Development Director in Region Norrbotten.

Satellites and security

Of the 400 million, the Swedish Space Agency will receive 14 million to handle more permit cases. The rest will go to SSC Space AB to increase Sweden's ability to launch satellites. This strengthens both civil and military capacity. With today's announcement, Norrbotten's position as a central node in Europe's space cooperation is strengthened.

– The investment strengthens Norrbotten's long-term development. We already have leading research, companies and education in the space field. Now our ability to launch satellites is growing – a resource for both defense, business and innovation, says Anders Öberg (S), chairman of the regional board of Region Norrbotten.

Text: Sara Stylbäck Vesa