2026-09-24

Safety as a Driver of Growth

When I was growing up, safety was rarely talked about. It was simply there. Today, it has become a concern for society as a whole, encompassing both our internal and external sense of security. What has changed is not only the threat landscape, but also the realization that safety can no longer be taken for granted. Those who act now can help shape a safer future.

For a long time, Europe was defined by the polarization of the Cold War, followed by decades of openness and growing international trade. The new world order was taken for granted.

Today, we face a different reality. Wars and conflicts, growing hybrid threats, and rapid technological advancement have reshaped our understanding of safety and how we protect ourselves. At the same time, Sweden’s membership in NATO has elevated preparedness onto the national agenda. A resilient Sweden helps us shape the future.

New Needs Create New Opportunities

Safety is not only about managing threats and risks. In my view, that perspective is far too narrow. We need to invest in developing new technologies, building expertise, and creating jobs in areas where demand is expected to grow for many years to come. More people need access to the right training, critical infrastructure such as hospitals and airports need protection, and decision-makers need better situational awareness. Early insights can prevent major consequences. Swedish companies have an important role to play in this effort.

Individual innovations can be crucial, but the real impact comes when we collectively build capabilities that strengthen society’s resilience. Sandberg Development’s role is therefore greater than simply investing in and developing companies. We want to be part of the ecosystem that shapes tomorrow’s solutions.

A Technological Leap for Safety

Sandberg Development has built a significant business focused on safety and resilience. With Aimpoint as its foundation, we have continued to refine the expertise and relationships we already possess. Spin-offs such as GAIM and Rescue Intellitech are examples of how our long-term approach and capabilities can create something entirely new. In particular, the development of software and digital platforms must be prioritized, both to increase independence and to create solutions that are more scalable, cost-effective, and accessible to a wider range of users.

This includes training solutions that help first responders and other critical societal functions train and develop their capabilities more effectively across different environments and scenarios. It includes drone technologies that can provide clearer situational awareness in complex situations. And it includes sensor and surveillance solutions that help protect critical infrastructure and facilities.

I believe there is momentum for many Swedish companies to make bold and rapid technological leaps to strengthen Sweden’s preparedness. Investing here and now is, in my view, essential for a safer society.

Jesper Arvidsson
Executive Director Corporate Development