The visit by the Military Committee clearly highlights Sweden’s growing role within NATO and the necessity of ongoing defence investments. Sweden’s accession to NATO not only means receiving security guarantees from 31 allied countries, but also implies an expectation to contribute to collective defence. The visit is therefore an important step in demonstrating that Sweden is ready to take on that responsibility.
"The role of the Military Committee in NATO is directly crucial for military planning. The visit will provide a better understanding of Sweden as an ally, thereby enhancing the defence of the alliance," says Vice Admiral Jonas Haggren, Sweden’s military representative to NATO.
Gotland’s Strategic Role in the Baltic Sea
The visit began in Gotland, where the guests received a briefing on the island’s central and geostrategic importance in the Baltic Sea. Gotland’s proximity to Russia and the Baltic states means that the island plays a crucial role in protecting maritime routes, airways, and military infrastructure in the Baltic region. Controlling Gotland essentially means controlling key supply routes to Finland and the Baltics in the event of a conflict—making the island a strategic priority for both Sweden and NATO.
“Gotland is a strategic key for stability in the Baltic Sea. The recent defence investments in Gotland have increased Sweden’s capacity to defend both ourselves and our allies, strengthening NATO’s overall position in the region”, says Carl-Johan Edström.
Arctic Capabilities – A Vital Resource for NATO
On the second day, the Military Committee travelled to Norrland and Boden. There, the guests gained insight into Sweden’s defence capabilities in a sub-Arctic environment. The Swedish Armed Forces' ability to conduct military operations in extreme weather conditions has become a strategic asset for NATO, especially given the impact of climate change on the Arctic.
Together with Norway and Finland, Sweden can carry out operations in NATO’s northern area. Climate change is making sea routes through the Arctic Ocean more accessible, increasing the strategic importance of the Arctic for global trade and natural resource extraction.
“Sweden’s military capability in this region is therefore not only crucial for Sweden’s security, but also for NATO’s ability to operate in Northern Europe”, say Lieutenant General Jérôme Goisque and Lieutenant General Sir Ian Cave, France’s and the United Kingdom’s military representatives to NATO.
Sweden’s Role as a Logistical Hub in NATO
During the visit, NATO’s Military Committee also received a briefing on Sweden’s role as a transit country and logistical hub for NATO in Northern Europe. Sweden’s importance in terms of logistical corridors and Host Nation Support is a critical factor in quickly receiving and supporting allied forces. In the event of a conflict, it is essential to efficiently deploy troops and equipment and provide infrastructure for transport, bases, command, and security.
The Swedish Air Force demonstrated the geographical distribution of aircraft, landing on highways with JAS Gripen fighter jets, and aircraft maintenance performed by conscript soldiers. Sweden’s conscription system attracted significant interest and impressed the visitors. The military leaders also had the opportunity to observe the Swedish Armed Forces in action in Arctic warfare, including snowmobiles, skiing, and helicopters.
“It is important to achieve a broad understanding of how Sweden’s military capabilities strengthen and complement collective defence within NATO, but also to create personal meetings and discussions”, says Carl-Johan Edström.