A New Security Landscape Fuels Innovation in Kista
Sweden’s security posture has evolved rapidly in recent years. The threat landscape now spans digital realms as much as traditional battlefields, demanding rapid, resilient and intelligent solutions. In Kista, a cluster of defense and security companies is turning research into practical tools that bolster national defense and civilian protection alike. At the forefront is TERASi, whose Aircore technology delivers secure, fast, and hard-to-jam networks designed for environments where conventional infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable.
As James Campion, CEO of TERASi, notes, the work in Kista reflects a shifting notion of defense. “Today, successful defense hinges on information and communication as much as on weapons. Being able to talk quickly, securely and reliably is essential—whether in military operations or in responding to natural disasters like wildfires and floods.” This mindset underpins a growing ecosystem where research translates into deployable capabilities for both government and civil society.
From AI-Driven Decision-Making to Live Training
Among the notable players is Avioniq, which has developed AI-based decision-support systems and training tools for fighter pilots. Their software enables real-time tactical recommendations without requiring new hardware, freeing pilots to focus on the bigger strategic choices. “We assist pilots with tactical decisions—when to fire, or which direction to maneuver—so they can concentrate on the overall mission,” says Mikael Grev, Avioniq’s CEO and co-founder.
Another pillar in Kista’s defense tech landscape is IRnova, a world leader in infrared detection. Their sensors serve surveillance, reconnaissance and target acquisition in advanced defense systems, lifting the technical performance bar for Swedish security applications.
A Broader Ecosystem: Drones, EW, Cyber Defense
The Kista cluster goes beyond pilots and sensors. Companies like T2data are advancing autonomous drone collaboration to execute complex defense missions, leveraging swarms and coordinated autonomy to enhance operational reach and reduce risk. Oscilion specializes in electromagnetic warfare, offering tools to disrupt or defend against sophisticated electronic threats, a growing area as adversaries increasingly exploit the radio spectrum. Additionally, a spectrum of cybersecurity and anti-drone technologies protects critical infrastructure and essential services from both digital and physical attacks.
Why Kista Works: Collaboration, FOI and Talent
What makes Kista a unique hub is its ability to translate research into practical, field-ready solutions. The proximity to Försvarets forskningsinstitut (FOI), a large pool of engineers, and a culture of academia-industry collaboration create a rapid feedback loop between pilots, engineers and researchers. This ecosystem is essential for ensuring that technologies not only exist in theory but function reliably under real-world stress, whether on a test range or in emergency response scenarios.
With expertise spanning AI, satellite communications, and infrared sensing, Kista has emerged as one of Europe’s most dynamic centers for next-generation defense technology. The region’s strength lies in marrying advanced science with the practical needs of defense and civil protection, enabling Sweden to stay ahead in a landscape where both cyber and kinetic risks demand sophisticated, integrated responses.
The Road Ahead for Sweden’s Security and Civil Preparedness
As threats continue to blur the line between military and civilian spheres, Kista’s defense tech cluster will likely deepen its role in both national security and civil resilience. The ongoing collaboration among startups, established defense contractors, and public research institutions promises to deliver solutions that are not only cutting-edge but also deployable across diverse contexts—from border protection and airspace safety to disaster response and critical infrastructure protection. In Kista, innovation is no longer a byproduct of defense—it is the engine powering Sweden’s security future.
