Although the 350 soldiers are still a far cry from the 25,000-strong force that was present on Gotland only several decades ago, the measure nevertheless marks a turning point in Sweden's military doctrine.
After more than a decade of demilitarization, the P 18 regiment on Gotland has been reinstated with much pomp, Swedish national broadcaster SVT reported, calling the moment “historic,” as the Baltic island has once again welcomed regular troops.
“Security-wise, we live in a reality of unpredictability and quick changes, even in our immediate vicinity. To be able to meet every threat and every challenge, we must be present where our abilities are most needed. This applies to Gotland. Keep the colors high!” Supreme Commander Micael Bydén said during the ceremony, stressing that Gotland has been a place of strategic importance for centuries and remains so today.
Bydén attended the formal ceremony on Gotland alongside King Carl XVI Gustaf, Prime Minister Stefan Löfvén and Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist.
The “aggression and unpredictability” rhetoric also featured in the speech made by Prime Minister Stefan Löfvén. According to him, the message is clear: Sweden aims to defend itself.
Can't Get Enough: Sweden Wants to Double Its Nuclear Bunkers
Over the past several decades Sweden's military spending has dwindled from 3.1 percent of GDP in 1981 to a measly 1.1 percent in 2015. Likewise, the number of regiments and flotillas has been…
