Sweden’s Flygvapnet is marking its 100th anniversary in 2026 with events across the country, culminating in a jubilee air show at Malmen Air Base in Linköping on 22-23 August. The celebration brings together the Swedish Armed Forces and international participants, while also highlighting Saab’s GlobalEye early-warning aircraft programme in the wider centenary narrative.
Founded on 1 July 1926, the Swedish Air Force grew into one of Europe’s larger Cold War-era air arms, reaching about 1,000 aircraft at its peak. Today, it has around 4,000 personnel and sits at the centre of Sweden’s shift from neutrality to NATO integration, now contributing to allied air defence on the alliance’s northern flank.
The anniversary programme runs throughout 2026, with public events designed to pair heritage with current capability. The Linköping air show is the main public showcase and includes flying displays and ground exhibitions, making Malmen the focal point of Sweden’s centenary celebrations.