Stockholm has acquired five Pelican satellites from the US company Planet Labs. This acquisition is expected to significantly increase Sweden's satellite capabilities within the next year.
As a result of this acquisition, Sweden is projected to possess more spy satellites than several other European nations, including France, which has historically been a leader in the field of geospatial intelligence. The shift in the balance of GEOINT power in Europe is noted as occurring at an unprecedented pace and cost.
While the acquisition enhances Sweden's satellite capacity, it also presents a potential risk of dependence on US technology. The full implications of this strategic move on Europe's geospatial intelligence landscape are still unfolding.
