“Total defense starting points”. Sweden is preparing for 3 months of fighting

Seven scenarios of the attack on Sweden, including the hybrid war and the occupation of Gotland, are taken into account by the report of the Swedish Armed Forces and the Office for Readiness and Population Protection (MSB) published on Friday. According to the study, the country must be prepared for at least a three -month fight.

As emphasized, the document “Total Total Points for 2025-30” is inspired by conclusions from the war unleashed by Russia against Ukraine and takes into account Sweden's membership in NATO.

Among the seven possible threats were: Hybrid war, attack on NATO allied army arranged in Sweden's territory, the occupation of Gotland, an island strategically located in the middle of the Baltic. The other two scenarios are participation in the war that is a consequence of the stationing of Swedish soldiers in Finland (planned) and in the Baltic countries (the army is already present in Latvia).

It was noticed that in principle hybrid threats are already taking place, and several types of attacks can occur simultaneously. The report warned against disinformation as well as influence operations aimed at making decisions and defense.

Due to the geographical location, Sweden in the event of war or crisis is to play a key logistics role in the transport of allied troops from west to east. The document indicates the need to protect infrastructure.

One of the most important conclusions is to say that Sweden must be able to deal with a three -month war in Europe to prepare for a longer fight at that time. However, civil entities are to be able to survive without external help for two weeks, thanks to having their own supplies.

According to the authors, the study “Total starting points for 2025-30” is to be “planning support for all entities participating in preparations for total defense-from municipalities, regions and central authorities, to companies and organizations.”

In Sweden, the concept of total defense means armed actions of the army and resistance of civilians. The Office for Readiness and Population Protection in 2026 will change its name to the Civil Defense Office in connection with the change of business profile.

In recent years, Sweden authorities have restored universal consumption to the army, increased defense expenses and decided to return soldiers to Gotland. Inventory and modernization of shelters is underway.

From Stockholm Daniel Zyśk (PAP)

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