The Swedish Armed Forces will contribute operational capabilities and regional expertise to “Arctic Sentry”, a recently established NATO-mission. According to the Swedish Ministry of Defense, the participation strengthens NATO’s joint capability for deterrence, defense and coordination in an increasingly important area in terms of security policy.
The aim of “Arctic Sentry” is to better coordinate all current and planned military activities in the Arctic region and thereby contribute to increased deterrence and defense in the region. “The NATO membership of Finland and Sweden has strengthened the Alliance’s presence and capabilities in the Arctic. Seven out of eight countries in the Arctic are now allies and the armed forces contribute to stability and security in the region,” said Johan Pekkari, Head of Strategy at the Swedish Defense Staff.
The Swedish contribution consists, among other things, of fighter aircraft that are currently stationed in Iceland as part of NATO’s operational readiness. Initially, this involves various exercises together with the Danish Air Force. Swedish paratroopers will also be practising in Greenland for several weeks. The further involvement of the armed forces will be continuously analyzed on the basis of planned exercises and activities.
Arctic Sentry” is being led from NATO’s operational headquarters in Norfolk, Virginia, on the east coast of the USA.
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