Sweden’s Most Innovative Defense Technology Gathers in Kista
In Kista, a new defense cluster is taking shape — one that is transforming the perception of Swedish security. Here, in the northern part of Stockholm, technologies are being developed to meet a completely new kind of threat — where cyberattacks, coordinated drones, and advanced AI are as crucial as traditional weapons. Kista has become the hub for companies that not only strengthen Sweden’s defense capabilities but also place Swedish innovation on the world map.
Sweden’s security situation has changed dramatically in recent years.
The threat landscape has broadened — today’s conflicts play out as much in the digital sphere as on the battlefield. This demands new solutions — and those are precisely what are being developed in Kista, where a cluster of defense and security companies is driving innovation forward.
“We see an entirely new kind of threat landscape emerging, where technology and innovation are decisive. Kista has become the place where these solutions are born,” says James Campion, CEO of TERASi, which develops robust and decentralized communication systems for environments where traditional infrastructure is insufficient.
“We’ve been able to build bridges between pilots, engineers, and researchers. That’s crucial for creating technology that truly works under real-world conditions,” says Mikael Grev, CEO and co-founder of Avioniq.
From AI-Powered Pilots to Cybersecurity
With its patented Aircore technology, TERASi develops secure, fast, and interference-resistant networks.
“Today, defense is not just about weapons but also about information. The ability to communicate quickly, securely, and reliably is absolutely critical — whether during military operations or in civilian crises like major fires or floods,” says James Campion.
Among the companies pushing development forward is Avioniq, whose AI-based decision support systems and training tools for fighter pilots have already demonstrated several hundred percent improvement in Swedish air combat performance. Their software is already being used operationally, enabling real-time tactical decisions — without requiring new hardware.
“We help the pilot with tactical decisions — when to fire, or which direction to fly. That lets the pilot focus on higher-level decisions,” says Mikael Grev, CEO and co-founder of Avioniq.
Kista is also home to IRnova, a world leader in infrared detection. Their sensors are used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition in advanced defense systems — raising the technological standard of Swedish security.
Other examples of innovative companies include T2data, which develops technology enabling autonomous drones to collaborate on complex defense missions, and Oscilion, which specializes in electromagnetic warfare and provides solutions that can jam or defend against advanced electronic threats. In addition, several companies in cybersecurity and anti-drone technology are safeguarding critical infrastructure and social functions against both digital and physical attacks.
“Proximity to the Swedish Defense Research Agency was one of the reasons Avioniq chose to establish itself in Kista,” says Mikael Grev.
Kista — More Than Just a Tech Cluster
What unites these companies is their ability to rapidly translate research and innovation into practical solutions for both military and civil defense.[Textbrytning]Proximity to the Swedish Defense Research Agency (FOI), a large pool of skilled engineers, and a strong tradition of collaboration between academia and industry make Kista a unique location for Swedish defense innovation.
“We’ve been able to build bridges between pilots, engineers, and researchers. That’s essential for creating technology that truly works in real-world scenarios,” says Mikael Grev.
With expertise spanning everything from AI to satellite communications and infrared detection, Kista is now one of Sweden’s — and Europe’s — most dynamic hubs for the defense technology of the future.