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Sweden Showcases NATO Role and Total‑Defence Model at Berlin Security Conference

Sweden presents its selective draft as the backbone of a total‑defence posture shaping its response to Russian pressure.

Overview

  • Defence Minister Pål Jonson says Russia’s Baltic Fleet is acting more aggressively as NATO expands maritime surveillance through Baltic Sentry with Swedish naval units fully integrated.
  • Sweden deepens Baltic naval cooperation with Germany, highlighting the Rostock‑based CTF Baltic and a legal framework that allows commanders to shoot down intruding drones or aircraft when required.
  • Since joining NATO in March 2024, Sweden has taken concrete roles including framework nation for forward land forces in Finland, a mechanised battalion deployment to Latvia, and Gripen jets for air policing in Poland.
  • A mandatory‑but‑selective conscription brings in about 10% of each cohort, with more applicants than places and broad political backing to raise defence spending toward 5% of GDP.
  • Sweden co‑leads an electronic‑warfare working group for Ukraine with Germany and supports Kyiv’s long‑range capabilities, while stating that any decision to supply Taurus missiles is for Germany to make.