“This is a historic decision. For the first time as an ally, we will contribute armed troops to Nato’s joint defence,” said Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard.
She spoke after the government handed over its bill to parliament on how Sweden, Nato’s newest member, will contribute to the alliance’s deterrence and defence.
“Sweden’s geographical location and our ability to support allies is crucial for Nato to be able to operate in our part of Europe. Sweden rises to this task,” said the minister.
As has previously been announced, the contribution will among other things consist of a reduced ground unit battalion of 600 soldiers to be sent to Latvia in early 2025.
Sending troops abroad requires the approval of parliament.
Other than land-based troops, Sweden will also contribute at sea and in the air.
It will send naval ships to Nato’s maritime units for up to six months next year, primarily to participate in surveillance and demining operations in the North Sea and Baltic Sea.
Up to eight Jas Gripen jets will contribute to Nato’s air surveillance.
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In the event of an armed attack, both the reduced battalion in Latvia and the naval ships will be able to stay and execute tasks as decided by Nato operative strategy.
In the bill to parliament, the government has left some margin for having to increase the number of troops on short notice without consulting parliament, so the total forces are capped at 1,200 soldiers, six naval ships and up to 24 Gripen jets.
“That’s to be able to act swiftly and forcefully in a worsened security situation,” said Jonson.
Sweden and Finland dropped decades of military non-alignment and applied for Nato membership in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Finland became a member in 2023 and Sweden this year.
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Publish date : 2024-10-07 06:09:00
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