Northwood, UK – The Swedish flag was raised in front of the Atlantic Building, NATO Allied Maritime Command in Northwood, UK on Monday, as Sweden became the 32nd NATO member. Flag-raising ceremony had the participation of the Chief of the Royal Swedish Navy, Rear Admiral Ewa Skoog Haslum and the Swedish Ambassador to the UK, Mr. Stefan Gullgren.
“Membership of NATO will have a very large impact on naval integration in the Baltic Sea,” said Swedish Navy Officer Lt Cdr Marcus Bengtsson. “Global developments, from the Red Sea to the Baltic Sea, affects us all. Sweden, with its maritime capabilities, will definitely contribute to a stronger NATO, but I also know that NATO membership will make Swedish Maritime efforts stronger.”
Sweden has already been making a vital maritime contribution to the Alliance, consistently demonstrating its commitment to European and transatlantic security through various collaborations and contributions to the NATO Alliance, particularly in the maritime domain.
As a NATO Partner, Sweden has actively participated in NATO-led maritime operations and exercises. During 2023, these included Dynamic Move, Neptune Strike, Dynamic Mercy, BALTOPS and Steadfast Jupiter. Sweden’s contribution to these exercises included naval assets and expertise, enhancing collective defence and interoperability among Allied forces. Swedish naval units frequently engage in joint exercises with NATO Allies in the Baltic Sea and North Atlantic, fostering cooperation and coordination in addressing common security challenges.
Sweden boasts a modern and capable navy equipped with advanced vessels and submarines, and a naval force known for its professionalism and proficiency.
Sweden’s advanced maritime surveillance systems, such as radar networks, maritime patrol aircraft, and underwater sensors, provide valuable intelligence and situational awareness to NATO forces operating in the Baltic Sea region. By sharing information and conducting joint patrols with NATO Allies, Sweden makes a vital contribution to the collective understanding of maritime activities, including potential threats from adversaries.
The Swedish Navy possesses the expertise and resources necessary to conduct a wide range of maritime operations, including anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, and maritime interdiction. In the Baltic Sea region, Sweden has maintained Maritime Situational Awareness (MSA), provided underwater warfare capability with its submarines, and regularly cleared historic unexploded ordnance from previous conflicts, making the seas safer for all shipping.
As a littoral state in the Baltic Sea region, Sweden plays a crucial role in ensuring maritime security and stability in this strategic area. The Baltic Sea serves as a vital transit route for both commercial shipping and military vessels, making it susceptible to various security threats, including maritime piracy, illegal trafficking, and potential military provocations. Sweden's maritime surveillance capabilities and patrolling activities help monitor and safeguard the Baltic Sea, contributing to NATO's efforts to deter aggression and maintain freedom of navigation.