Swedish Air Force orders two Global 6500s

Swedish Air Force Orders Two Bombardier Global 6500 Jets to Modernize VIP Fleet

The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (Försvarets Materielverk), responsible for procurement on behalf of the Swedish Air Force, has finalized a contract to acquire two Bombardier Global 6500 business jets. Valued at SEK 1.1 billion (approximately USD 115 million), the order aims to renew the country’s VIP transport capabilities. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery in November and December 2025.

Designated Tp 106 by the Swedish Air Force, the new jets will be operated by the 75th State Aviation Squadron, based at Stockholm Arlanda Airport. They will replace the existing VIP fleet, which currently comprises a 29-year-old Gulfstream GIV-SP and a 16-year-old Gulfstream G550. The decision to standardize the VIP fleet with two identical Global 6500s is intended to simplify operational procedures and maintenance, addressing the complexities associated with managing different aircraft models.

Strategic Fleet Integration and Broader Modernization Efforts

The introduction of the Global 6500s is also expected to create operational synergies with the Air Force’s forthcoming airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) platforms. These will consist of three Global 6000-based aircraft, modified by Saab, and scheduled for delivery in 2027. The new AEW&C aircraft will replace the current Saab 340B AEW platforms, further streamlining the Air Force’s fleet.

This procurement occurs amid a competitive market for VIP and special-mission aircraft. Industry analysts suggest that Sweden’s order may prompt reactions from rival manufacturers, potentially influencing pricing strategies and product offerings as companies compete for similar contracts. The choice to invest in new jets rather than pre-owned models may also attract scrutiny regarding cost-effectiveness, particularly as governments globally balance modernization needs against fiscal constraints.

Beyond the VIP transport fleet, the Swedish Air Force continues to advance its special-mission capabilities. It currently operates two Learjet KR-35As for target-towing and electronic warfare, which are set to be replaced by three modified Learjet 60SEs. The first of these new aircraft, serial number 60-280, commenced test flights at Linköping Malmen on April 28, 2025. Additionally, the special-mission fleet includes two Gulfstream GIV-SP (S 102 B) aircraft configured for signals intelligence operations.

With the integration of the Global 6500s and ongoing upgrades across its special-mission aircraft, the Swedish Air Force is reinforcing its operational efficiency and maintaining a robust capability to meet both VIP transport and specialized mission requirements.