Sweden Proposes Raising Reserve Officer Age Limit to 70

Sweden is considering a major shift in its defense recruitment policy by raising the conscription age for former military officers in the reserves from 47 to 70 years old, according to a proposal submitted by a government-appointed committee.

The proposal, reported by Swedish broadcaster SVT, comes in response to the country’s planned large-scale expansion of its armed forces in the coming years. The measure would apply to former military personnel who have completed at least one year of active duty or reserve service.

Currently, individuals with prior military experience or training can be recalled for service up to the age of 47. Those who have not participated in military activities for over a decade are removed from the recruitment register.

Under the proposed reform, this rule would be abolished, enabling the reactivation of thousands of experienced former service members.

The committee's recommendation reflects growing security concerns in Europe and aligns with Sweden’s long-term defense strategy. The Swedish Parliament has already approved a significant military spending increase, pledging 300 billion kronor ($31.4 billion), in addition to annual budget growth for defense.

In parallel with the proposed age limit extension, Sweden has committed to increasing the number of conscripts undergoing basic training. According to the latest directive from the Swedish Ministry of Defense, at least 10,000 recruits will receive training by 2030, with that figure expected to rise to 12,000 annually in subsequent years.