Swedish army. The Swedish army on the eve of the Northern War

A visit to an extremely interesting place.
Entrance fee is 80 CZK. There are Russian audio guides.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri - 11:00-20:00
Sat - 11:00-17:00

The museum is located on the territory of a former artillery depot.

And his fencing is more than entertaining. We can safely assume that these are real halberds)

This area is very ancient, so the surrounding buildings correspond.

Stridsvagn 103 (Strv.103), also known in the West as the "S-tank" (English S-tank - "Swedish tank") - a Swedish main battle tank of the 1960s. A number of experts classify it not as a tank, but as a tank destroyer. It has a unique turretless layout with a gun rigidly mounted in the hull, which is aimed by turning the tank and tilting its hull using a special suspension. It also has a number of other unique features, for example, a power plant of two different types of engines, diesel and gas turbine.

Apparently the gun is from some fort, model 1854

For centuries, war has been a constant companion of humanity. The tendency towards collective cruelty directed against others was once considered unique property of people.
In our time, we have discovered “brothers in arms” in chimpanzees, our closest relatives among the primates.
Much of their DNA is similar to ours, and they, like us, wage war in primitive ways.

That's what the museum is all about: murder and mayhem, or at least the threat of it.

Thor is the Scandinavian god of war. Patron of warriors and peasants. Brave, but a bit stupid. His weapon is a magic hammer.

The most authentic Viking swords.

Swedish soldier in modern equipment represents the warrior today.

The neck cutter is a semi-mythical creature from the Moche culture in Peru (500 BC). In his right hand he holds a “tumi” - a ritual knife for sacrifices.

This model of a nobleman's castle dates back to 1380. The king's consent was necessary for the construction of the castle, but economic resources they were not allowed to build very large castles

Landsknechts - Swiss and German mercenaries were the best soldiers 16th century. Gustav Eriksson Vasa began an uprising against the king of the Danish Union with the help of peasant soldiers, but to achieve victory he had to hire a couple of thousand more German mercenaries.

The scene depicts a Ladsknecht signing a contract with a German recruiter, putting his mark on it. The location of the scene is next to the inn, a common meeting place for unemployed soldiers.

A crossbow from Dalecarlia with a stelamic lever and a bowstring, a typical landsnecht sword (katballger), a halberd, a battle scythe and a caltrop at the bottom, a device for preventing the movement of infantry and horses.

Within 24 hours, the army of 5800 consumed 17 cubic meters of beer (it was not recommended to drink water), approximately 3 tons of meat, and about 6 tons of bread.

In order not to starve, they needed to disperse over the area or move from place to place. It was impossible to keep an army in one place for a long time

Camp during 30 summer war.
Half or a third of the army consisted of soldiers, but it also included a large number of women, children, sutlers, prostitutes and various merchants.

After 30 years of war, Germany had lost about 25% of its population due to disease, famine and warfare.

Pikemen and musketeers.
From left to right: pikeman armor, sergeant's halberd and protazan, Swedish banner, sword, musketeer hat. (musketeers usually did not wear a helmet), a musket stand, a musket, a chest bandoleer (each of the small wooden flags contains a charge of gunpowder for one shot)

Powder flask and loaded grenade.

In the 17th century, propaganda was aimed at justifying the Swedish wars of conquest. Social system was created by God.
The nobility struggled to live up to the new status great power, building castles and indulging in luxury.
Rows noble class swelled by the award of nobility and adventurers from the continent.
The land holdings of the nobility doubled from 1/3 to 2/3 of the territory.

Nobleman around 1650.
He is most likely German, and acquired wealth through plunder during the 30 Years' War, for his efforts in the war the government granted him an estate.

On his forehead there are traces of syphilis, a common disease at that time. On the table are drawings of the new castle. He drinks Rhine and smokes a pipe. Smoking came to Sweden with returning soldiers.

Metallurgy began to develop rapidly, not without the help of capital and craftsmen from the Netherlands, and Sweden became one of the leading exporters of iron artillery in Europe.

When large-scale wars began, the arms industry had to maintain momentum and produce a large number of standard weapons.

Neither the population nor the economy of Sweden were able to support the empire without financial assistance from continental power. Charles 10th Gustav managed to conquer eastern part Denmark (a third of its territory) - which the Danes were not inclined to forget. His son, Charles the 11th, inherited a country united by an alliance with France, and thus became embroiled in the French wars.

He managed to resist the efforts of the Danes to return the lost territories. And - after a long and very brutal war in Scania - he was presented with a peace agreement concluded by the victorious Louis 14th. Denmark and Brandenburg were to restore all the provinces lost by Sweden in Germany.

Time of autocracy (1680-1700)
Power was concentrated in the hands of the king. Many noble lands were confiscated in order to provide military establishments. The hated conscription system was replaced by a professional army. Each province had its own regiment, and the soldiers lived in small houses scattered throughout the territory.

The captain was a military commander. The parish priest kept records of parishioners and provided the authorities with information about the number of men suitable for military service.

Behind the soldier are his wife and child, next to a model of his house.
The king's decrees were promulgated from the preacher's pulpit, and failure to attend sermons was punishable.

The soldiers depended on the peasants to provide them with uniforms, housing, a piece of land and a small amount of money.
In exchange for this, the soldiers had to work for the peasants.

Equipment of a foot soldier Circa 1690
Uniform, sword, musket (flintlock and matchlock) and chest to store equipment. This uniform is the first in all of Sweden. The chest was kept by the head of a group of peasants who fed the soldiers. Weapons were usually supplied by the government.

Cavalry equipment.
Recruits for the cavalry were recruited differently than for the infantry. Wealthy peasants provided for the cavalryman and equipped his horse with a saddle and bridle. Uniform and everything necessary. For this, the peasant was exempt from paying taxes.

A triumphant march towards disaster. (1700-1709)
Denmark, Saxony, and Russia united under the banner of conquering the provinces of Sweden. They attacked in 1700. The Great Northern War of 1700-1721 began. With naval support from England and the Netherlands, Denmark was defeated. The Russian army was driven back near Narva. Charles the 12th's strategy was successful in Saxony and Poland, while the Russians returned and retook the Baltic states. The main forces of the Swedish army under the leadership of Charles the 12th invaded Russia.

The Caroline cavalry played an important role in the military actions of Charles the 12th. The troops formed a tight V-shaped formation and attacked at full gallop. Swedish horses were small and shaggy, but strong and resilient. The infantry wasted no time in firing, at most one volley, and then a swift attack with drawn swords. “The sword is not a joke” (c) Charles the 12th. There were no plans for retreat.

Items from the Great Times Northern War.

A carbine with an attached copper bowl for launching grenades. On the right is a millstone for grinding grain in the field.

For some reason the artist depicted Mazepa as Russian. After a grueling campaign, the Swedes burned near Poltava.

Sweden was at war with for the most part Europe, and the king mobilized all resources, not disdaining overt confiscation. Successes delayed the end. All Baltic regions went to Russia.
Charles the 12th attacked Norway in 1716, but failed. He died during a second attempt in 1718.

Caroline disaster 1709-1721
Soldiers freezing to death in the mountains. In the winter of 1718-1719, the retreating Swedish army was caught in a snowstorm and terrible cold. Half the soldiers died.

Uniform of 1756.
A complete set of uniforms with a backpack and weapons. This military version Gustav III's attempts to force the Swedes to dress alike (the idea of ​​"national dress")

Russian soldiers take aim.

An 8-pounder gun in action during the War of 1808-1809.

The Swedish Army in the 180s was used to significantly expand the infrastructure, incl. for the construction of the Goethe canal and railway. The concept of “central defense” appeared, which led to the emergence of one large strategically located fortress - Carlsborg, where the King, the government and the Riksdag could retreat. Carlsborg was also designed as a major storage fortress.

Goethe Channel:
Crosses Sweden from east to west, was built with the help of British engineers.

A training field used by the regiment.

Once a year, in the summer, the soldiers left their houses to undergo two weeks of training.

They were joined by young men who had to serve several days a year.

World of universal conscription (1901-1914)
After a century of opposition from the rural class, compulsory military service was introduced in 1901. All male citizens from 20 to 42 years old were conscripted. The previous use of fields for military exercises is obsolete. Instead, soldiers were confined to barracks, and new regimental buildings were built in cities across the country. A unique military culture flourished in the garrison towns.

Separate worlds.
Although officers and enlisted men lived in different worlds, military conscription mixed everything social classes for about a year. It was believed that this contributed to the development of democracy. At the same time, the strict stratification of military life became a favorite theme of the popular arts. (see cartoons on the walls)

Neutral Observer (1914-1918)
Sweden did not take part in the First World War. But of course, preparations were made in case of an attack from outside. Veterans of the territorial army, consisting of reserves, protected the country's borders. During the First World War, several important innovations were introduced - tanks, airplanes, gas.

On display is the first primitive gas mask, a white-and-blue screen for sending messages, and the first radio equipment.

On alert (1939-1945)

Mobilization military units. At the beginning of World War II, soldiers received their equipment in the barracks.

Gradually smaller parts, mob. Points were established throughout the country to make them less vulnerable to enemy attack.

Crime and Punishment.
Military discipline was always maintained through punishment. Until recently, in the 1970s, military justice issued its own sentences of detention (3 days in a cage).

In earlier times. The punishments were more than severe. From carrying several muskets for several hours and flogging to "skilled execution" which implied horrific cruelty prior to the actual killing.

Running through the gauntlet. Hardly anyone made it to the end.

The “croup” of this “horse” turns out to be just a pointed triangle...

In World War II, the Swedish army was technically backward and, if something happened, Comrade Hitler would have taken it with almost his bare hands.

The Swedes copied the green color of the uniform from the USA

Fragments of the nuclear program.

Barracks of the 60s. The receiver is playing rock and roll.

Combat fun farts)

Armor plates and especially armor-piercing sub-caliber shells.

In the 20th century, landmines were frequently used in theaters of war. On display is a pair of Swedish mini equipment for clearing the area of ​​mines. And in the photo there are black women without legs...

Since 1981, Swedish women have been allowed to perform military service - initially only in air force, but after that also in the navy and in the army itself.

Animals at war. Today's armies are mechanized, but horses were vital important part transport organization up to the Second World War.

I’m standing there, not touching anyone, I’m twirling the camera. And then BAMM! hit the piece of iron. WTF? Again: Bamm! It turns out that the horse model is hitting the bucket model with its hoof)

Cavalry and pack saddles

Swedish drone

Making tools

Tools for checking gun barrels

Cannonballs, gunpowder, buckshot

Cannon muzzle

And breech loading

Field blacksmith.

Swedes in the UN troops

On the eve of the war with Russia, Denmark and Saxony, the Swedish Empire (as the kingdom of Sweden and its possessions were called in the period from 1561 - after the conquest of Estonia, to 1721) was one of the great powers of Europe and had a strong army and navy.

During the 30 Years' War (1618-1648), the brilliant military actions of the Swedish military leaders ensured that Sweden outstanding role in Europe. According to the Peace of Westphalia, Western Pomerania with the port of Stettin, some part of Eastern Pomerania, the right to the Pomeranian Gulf with seaside towns. The Swedes now dominated the mouths of all the rivers of fragmented Germany and over most of the coast Baltic Sea. As a result of the Danish-Swedish war of 1643-1645 (it was part of the 30 Years' War), the Treaty of Bromsebru was signed. According to it, Sweden received the islands of Gotland and Ösel and also two areas on the Norwegian border: Jämtland and Härjedalen. In addition to these territorial concessions, the Swedes were exempted from customs duties when their ships passed through the Sound. In addition, the Danes, as a guarantee of the above concessions, gave Sweden the province of Halland for 30 years.

Denmark was then defeated in the war of 1657-1658. A peace treaty was signed in the Danish city of Roskilde, under which Denmark suffered huge territorial losses. The Swedes received three provinces in the south of the Scandinavian Peninsula - Skåne, Halland and Blekinge, the city of Trondheim. The islands of Bornholm (later Ven in the Sound Strait), Boguslen on the Kattegat and Trondiem Line on the Norwegian coast also passed to Sweden. In addition, Copenhagen pledged not to allow ships of “enemy” powers into the Baltic Sea. True, two years later Trondheim and Bornholm were returned to the Danes, but Sweden received all of Livonia in peace with Poland.

By the beginning of the 18th century, the Swedish Empire was experiencing not only military-political, but also economic growth. The country had a significant number of manufactories, including iron-making. On the basis of developed metallurgy there was military industry. Sweden controlled the most important military-strategic points of the Baltic Sea, its garrisons were stationed throughout the Baltic states and in Northern Germany. In order to maintain the conquered territories and be able to expand its possessions, the Swedish kingdom maintained powerful armed forces. The Swedish Naval Forces completely controlled the Baltic waters; they included 42 battleships, 12 frigates (according to other sources, 38 battleships and 10 frigates), a significant number of smaller warships, with 13 thousand sailors. The Swedish fleet had three squadrons, with up to 2.7 thousand guns on board their ships. In addition, the Swedes could use whole vessels and ships in the military merchant fleet– up to 800 units. They could be armed with additional weapons, used as military transports, landing ships. Thanks to this armada, Sweden could transfer its army to almost anywhere in the Baltic states. Its opponents did not have such an opportunity, Russia and Poland did not have fleets in the Baltic, the Danish fleet was weaker than the Swedish Navy.

The Swedish military planning system envisaged that a line of powerful fortresses along the borders of the Swedish Empire in Northern Germany, the Baltic states and Finland with strong garrisons and powerful artillery could withstand a first blow enemy army, gain time for the transfer of reinforcements, the main forces of the Swedish army. These same fortresses could become springboards for concentrating the main Swedish armed forces for an invasion of foreign territory. On the border with Russia, such fortresses were Narva, Yamburg (Yam), Noteburg (Oreshek), Nyenschanz, Kexholm (Korela), etc. The main forces of the Swedish army were located in the metropolis.

Swedish Empire in 1658.

Development of the Swedish Army

Since the 30 Years' War and the military reforms of King Gustov II Adolf (1611-1632), the Swedish army was considered invincible in Europe. Sweden has had a small standing army since the end of the 16th century; in addition, in case of war, a militia was convened. The Swedish army had vast military experience and was the brainchild of King Gustav II Adolf "The Lion of the North". It was the oldest standing army in Europe, second only to the Netherlands. If the armies of Europe were mainly mercenary, then the Swedish army, even before the “Lion of the North” reform, from the mid-16th century, was formed on the basis of the principle of compulsory military service and selective conscription. Each rural community was obliged to exhibit a certain number men. From these, a special commission selected soldiers according to the recruitment lists. This ensured uniform National composition army, which was more morally stable and disciplined, unlike the mercenaries. Under Gustavus Adolphus, the country was divided into nine territorial districts. In each district, a “large regiment” of 3 thousand people was formed. Each large regiment was divided into three "field regiments" of eight companies each. The regiments were stationed, each in its own clearly defined place. Every tenth peasant had to become a recruit. This system allowed Sweden to have a fairly strong army of 27 thousand people in peacetime. At the time of Gustov-Adolf's death, the Swedish army had 23 infantry and 8 cavalry regiments.

Gustav Adolf also laid the foundations of linear tactics: instead of the deep formation that was common in the armies of European countries, Swedish musketeers were formed in only 3 ranks, and pikemen in 6 ranks. The musketeers used volley fire, and the pikemen used theirs not only in defense, but during the offensive. Field artillery was divided into heavy and light.

Military reform Charles XI

Later, a system of settled troops was developed in Sweden. King Charles XI (1660 – 1697) carried out a radical reform of the armed forces in the 1680s, which further increased their combat power. The system, when every tenth peasant or small artisan was drafted into the army, was extremely unpopular in the country, and besides, maintaining a standing army was difficult for the state treasury. Charles XI did not want to burden the national budget, but at the same time the country needed a well-trained, standing army. A settlement system for recruiting the armed forces was introduced. The essence of the system was that the main costs of maintaining a standing army were covered by the income of state and private land holdings. For this purpose, a special military land cadastre was created in advance; it took into account the possessions of peasant communities and private farms, which were used to support soldiers and officers. In turn, communal and private lands were divided into plots of equal profitability; the income from one plot of land was supposed to be enough to support one soldier. One such plot united a group of peasant farms - a company. Each "company" had to contain one infantry soldier. For that peasant farms were exempt from taxes. In addition, each soldier was allocated a plot of land where his home was located.

The cavalry was recruited almost the same way. The rider and his horse were supported by one or more farms, for which their taxes were reduced. Officers were given a plot of land with an estate as a salary; its size and profitability depended on the position of the owner. A similar system was partially extended to the Navy. Thanks to these reforms, the Swedish Empire had 38 thousand people standing army, plus in the provinces - approximately 25 thousand in garrison and other services. During the same period, a new military harbor was built - Karlskrona (“Crown of Charles”). This system of territorial-militia recruitment of the Swedish army survived until the end of the 19th century. Thus, in peacetime, a significant part of the infantrymen, cavalrymen and sailors were engaged in agriculture, relieving significant pressure on the country's treasury. The weapons, horses (for cavalrymen), uniforms were on the farm, and the soldier could go on a campaign at any moment. Ammunition, other army equipment, and ammunition were located in a warehouse near the home of the company captain. The training of soldiers was carried out by attracting them to annual monthly military training, which took place after the harvest.

Foundation of Karlskrona.

Swedish army before the Northern War

When Charles XII (1697 - 1718) ascended the throne, Sweden had an army of approximately 60 thousand in peacetime. In wartime, the size of the army was increased through recruitment. In addition to the standing army, which was recruited in the manner described above, Sweden also had a few mercenary troops - the royal horse guards (Brabants) and artillerymen were recruited from mercenaries.

It was one of the most advanced military machines that have been created in mankind. It was strengthened by the religious component. The morale of the Swedish army was very high - soldiers and officers considered themselves invincible. This idea was based on a special religious attitude, which was based on the Protestant doctrine of Divine Predestination. This attitude was supported by regimental pastors, who consoled the wounded and dying, and supervised the soldiers’ lifestyle and performance of religious rites. Protestant priests instilled fatalism in the military (in fact, there was a process of programming for indifference to death). For example, when storming enemy positions, soldiers were not supposed to try to take cover; they were ordered to attack in full height. While supporting their flock on the battlefield, the priests themselves often died. The most important proof of God's favor to Sweden, the king, and the army were victories - and the Swedish army was used to winning, and went from victory to victory. The soldiers were convinced, and they were sure of it, that the Swedish army was sent by God to punish heretics, apostates and sinners, dishonest and wicked rulers who started the war against Sweden without just reasons. To support this myth, pastors resorted to biblical episodes. For example, during the war with Russia, the Swedes were compared to the ancient Jews who fought with the pagans. The Protestant religion was also needed to maintain cruelty towards the enemy in soldiers and officers: the words “punishment” and “revenge” did not leave the tongues of pastors during the Northern War. They drew their inspiration from the terrible scenes of the Old Testament, where the ancient Jews exterminated not only people, but even their livestock, dogs, and all living creatures. In this regard (psychological attitude), the Swedish army resembles Hitler's Wehrmacht.

The war also affected the psychology of the Swedish nobility. For the nobles, war was a source of glory, rewards, and enrichment, while peace often turned into material poverty, boredom and obscurity. These were real descendants of the Vikings, peaceful life was just boring. This thought was perfectly expressed by the famous Swedish commander Levenhaupt: “In war and abroad, even the smallest thing pleases me more than the so-called joys, on which I kill time with shame and vanity at home, in my homeland.” The Swedish nobleman Gustav Bunde said: “Many knights found themselves and showed their abilities, thereby maintaining the dignity of their class, while otherwise they would have had to vegetate in insignificance at home.”

To quickly gather troops, well-thought-out mobilization plans were developed, which ensured the rapid deployment and concentration of the main forces at a point chosen by the command for dispatch to the provinces on the southern shore of the Baltic Sea. The plans provided for the amount of time needed for the transition, rest, and determined the resting place for the moving troops. As a result, Sweden was ahead of its opponents in the mobilization deployment of troops. This is what happened at the beginning of the Northern War.

The army was well trained and armed, the soldiers were brave and resilient. It was led by the outstanding commander of his time, Charles XII. He was distinguished by his decisiveness and speed of action. Unlike the leaders of the enemy armies, who adhered to a methodical strategy, Charles was not afraid to quickly and freely maneuver large forces, to take risks (this was also facilitated by the presence powerful fleet). He could unexpectedly strike where he was not expected, and force a battle on terms favorable to him. Hit the enemy one by one. Charles XII was an adherent of the strategy of Alexander the Great, tried to defeat the enemy in decisive battle.

Charles was personally brave, he was a warrior king. When several paralyzing news arrived in Stockholm at once, simultaneously with the capture of Holstein by the Danish army, news arrived about the invasion of the troops of Augustus II into Livonia without a declaration of war and news about the alliance of the three great powers against Sweden. It was terrifying State Council Sweden began to offer to stop the war through negotiations. King Charles rose from his seat and said that he would wage war until complete victory over all opponents. The beginning of the war dramatically changed Karl's character; he immediately abandoned all the fun of his youth and became a real ascetic. From now on, the king knew neither luxury, nor wine, nor women, nor games, nor rest. He began to dress like a simple soldier, becoming a real monk in a soldier's jacket.

In the center of Stolm, among the monuments to many kings, there is a monument to Charles XII.

The freedom of maneuver of the Swedish army is explained not only by the presence of mobilization plans and a strong fleet, but also by methods of supplying troops. Their provision was carried out not only by transporting supplies from rear bases, but also at the expense of local resources (often plundering the population). “The war fed itself” - the Swedish army used local resources for supplies, but this method required rapid movement, the occupied area could not support troops for long. As a result, the Swedish army was not tied to supply bases.

The Swedes were merciless not only towards the enemy, his troops, but also the local population. In one of the messages to General Renschild, the Swedish king wrote: “Everyone who delays the delivery (indemnity) or is generally guilty of anything should be punished cruelly and without mercy, and their homes should be burned...” And further, the settlements where “you meet resistance, must be burned, whether the inhabitants are guilty or not.” In another letter, he notifies his generals that if the enemy does not leave them alone, then it is necessary to “devastate and burn everything around, in a word, so ruin the country that no one can approach you.” The king reports that he himself does the same: “we try our best and also ravage and burn every place where the enemy appears. Recently this way I burned the whole city…».

And here we see that extreme cruelty is generally characteristic of Western civilization. Methods of merciless terror against the civilian population were in service with the “enlightened Europeans” long before the appearance of the “blond beasts” of Adolf Hitler.

In the field of tactics, the Swedish army adhered to linear battle formations. The infantry was formed on the battlefield in 2-3 lines, cavalry regiments were usually located in ledges on the flanks of infantry formations. On the battlefield, the Swedish infantry fired volleys at the enemy, and then resolutely launched a bayonet attack. The cavalry (dragoons and cuirassiers) boldly attacked the enemy's formations. Infantry, cavalry and artillery worked closely together. The main tactical method during the battle was a decisive infantry attack on the enemy’s central positions. Usually the enemy could not withstand the blow of the persistent and brave Swedish infantry, and a cavalry strike completed the rout.

The Swedish infantry units consisted of two-thirds musketeers and one-third pikemen (soldiers armed with pikes). But gradually all the infantry were armed with rifles with bayonets. The cavalry was armed with pistols and broadswords, the dragoons also had muskets. Cuirassiers were protected by a cuirass. By 1700, the Swedish field artillery had been consolidated into one regiment with 1,800 personnel. The regiment was armed with 8- and 16-pound howitzers and 3-pound field guns.

As a result, the Swedish army was much better prepared for war than the Russian one. It was mobilized, well armed and trained, demonstrated the highest fighting spirit, and was led by a talented young commander and experienced generals. The Russian army was in the stage of reform, old traditions were breaking down, new ones had not yet taken root. The great weakness of the Russian army was the fact that foreigners predominated in its high command.

A sample of the Swedish lance.

Allied and Swedish war plans

The general plan of the war of the allies - Denmark, Saxony, Russia was reduced to a consistent attack on Swedish territories in Northern Germany, the southern Baltic states, and Karelia. Gradually take over strategically important fortresses, cities, points. Russian command was going to act in Ingermanland and Karelia - to return to Russia the lands lost as a result of the Troubles of the early 17th century, access to the Baltic Sea. The Swedes also perfectly understood the strategic importance of the fortresses in Ingria and Karelia. They were the “keys” to Livonia and Finland.

A specific action plan was developed based on the allied treaties concluded with Saxony and Denmark. The Danes and Saxons were supposed to act first, and Russia after concluding peace with the Porte.

They tried to keep preparations for war in Russia secret. When the Swedish resident in Moscow, Knieper Krohn, asked to explain Russian military preparations and the creation of a regular army, he was informed that after the dissolution of the Streltsy army there was no infantry left in Russia, and the country needed to be prepared for war with Ottoman Empire. The secrecy of the preparatory measures is evidenced by the fact that even the governors of the front-line Pskov and Novgorod were not warned about the proximity of the start of the war. Narva was chosen as the target of the first strike of the Russian army. The success of the start of the war was associated with the simultaneous strike three powers, but from the very beginning this plan was violated.

In Sweden, there were mobilization plans that made it possible to quickly transfer an army to a threatened area. In addition, there was a project according to which Novgorod, Pskov, Olonets, Kargopol, Arkhangelsk were to become Swedish. Thus, Sweden pushed Russia further into the continental regions, away from its possessions in the Baltic, and dealt a powerful blow to trade competitors (Russian trade through Arkhangelsk was destroyed). The Swedes intended to conduct decisive offensive campaigns against each enemy separately. Denmark was considered the most dangerous enemy (it had a fleet); they planned to concentrate the main efforts of the army and navy against it at the initial stage of the war. At this time, in the Baltic states, Swedish fortresses had to pin down the forces of other opponents with stubborn defense and wait for the arrival of the main forces.

Swedish cavalrymen.

By the beginning of World War II 1939 - 1945. Among the Nordic countries, Sweden had the most powerful Armed Forces. Despite the fact that Sweden has maintained military neutrality since 1814 and did not officially participate in military conflicts, many citizens of this country in the 19th - first half of the 20th centuries. actively participated in many wars as volunteers. For example, in the civil war of 1936 - 1939. 500 Swedish citizens participated in Spain. At the beginning of World War II, Swedish volunteers (8260 people, 33 people died) in the Soviet-Finnish war of 1939 - 1940. fought on the side of Finland. In the spring and summer of 1940, 300 Swedish volunteers served in the Norwegian army. Since the summer of 1941 against the Red Army, consisting of Finnish army 1,500 Swedish volunteers fought (25 people died), and in the German army - 315 (40 people died).

Swedish volunteers in Spain. 1937

In addition, Sweden has traditionally been one of the world's largest producers and suppliers of various types of weapons. Since 1923 the company AB Landsverk produced tanks and exported them to many armies of the world, and the company AB Bofors was a manufacturer and supplier of various types of artillery pieces. In this regard, the Swedish army has always been well equipped technically and equipped with the latest weapons.

King Gustav V of Sweden

The difficult international situation in Europe in the second half of the 1930s. forced the Swedish government to take drastic measures to increase the defense capability of the country's Armed Forces. Since 1936, by decision of the Swedish parliament, annual spending on the army and navy was increased from 118 million to 148 million US dollars. Of these, expenses for the Air Force increased from 11 million to 28 million US dollars. Firm AB Svenska Järnvägsverkstädernas Aeroplanavdelning began the development and production of combat aircraft.

With the outbreak of the World War, spending on the Armed Forces increased sharply. Since 1942, Sweden's annual military budget has amounted to US$755 million.

As of September 1939, the Swedish Armed Forces numbered 110,000 people. By the beginning of active hostilities in Northern Europe In Sweden, mobilization was carried out and the number of military personnel increased to 320,000 people. Also in June 1940, detachments were formed civil defense, which included 5,000 people. In total, by 1945, the Swedish Armed Forces included up to 600,000 soldiers and officers.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Swedish Armed Forces was King Gustav V ( Gustaf V).

Since 1937, the direct leadership of the army was carried out by the “chief of the army” ( chefen for armen) Lieutenant General Per Sylvan ( Per Sylvan).

Lieutenant General Per Sylvan (right). 1940

In 1940, Per Sylvan was replaced by Lieutenant General Ivar Holmqvist ( Carl Axel Fredrik Ivar Holmquist).

Lieutenant General Ivar Holmqvist

Earl William Archibald Douglas. 1919

Since 1944, the position of “chief of the army” was held by a veteran of the Finnish Civil War of 1918, Lieutenant General Count Wilhelm Archibald Douglas ( Vilhelm Archibald Douglas).

By the beginning of 1941, the Swedish ground army increased from five to 10 infantry divisions ( Fordelning). The divisions were consolidated into six military districts. The troops on the island of Gotland were under a separate command, forming the 7th Military Region.

The infantry division consisted of three infantry and one artillery regiment. The cavalry was organized into four regiments (each with four machine guns and two cannon armored vehicles) and organized into two cavalry brigades. Each brigade was assigned one battalion of armored vehicles (four armored vehicles).

The infantry were armed with 6.5 mm rifles M/38, 6.5 mm rapid-fire rifles M/42, 9 mm submachine guns M/37-39 And Suomi-KP Model 1931, 6.5 mm light machine guns M/37, 6.5 mm heavy machine guns M/42, 4 mm mortars M/40, 20 mm heavy machine guns M/36 And M/40, 80 mm heavy mortars M/29, 120 mm heavy mortars M/41, 20 mm anti-tank rifles M/42, backpack flamethrowers M/41.

Swedish machine gunners. 1943

The Swedish infantry was sufficiently equipped with powerful (3-ton) Swedish-made trucks ( Scania-Vabis lastvogn LB350, Volvo terränlastvagn n/42 and others), which significantly increased the degree of its mobility.

Swedish truck Volvo n/42. 1943

In 1942 - 1943, equipped with armored cars, trucks and motorcycles, the infantry was organized into two motorized and one bicycle brigades.

Swedish motorized infantry. 1942

The artillery had 37 mm anti-tank guns M/38, 105 mm howitzers M/39, 105 mm howitzers M/40H And M/40S, 150 mm howitzers M/38 And M/39, 105 mm field guns M/34. Swedish artillery was equipped for transportation with armored tractors Terrangdragbil M/40 and M/43 Volvo, as well as belt tractors Allis-Chalmers, although some of the light artillery was transported by horse.

Swedish artillery tractor M/43 Volvo

Since 1940, the Swedish coast began to be fortified with numerous machine gun nests, and by 1942 a powerful coastal defense system had emerged, equipped with large-caliber artillery - a 152-mm gun M/98, 152 mm gun M/40, 210 mm gun M/42, as well as light rapid-fire 57 mm guns M/89V.

210-mm M/42 coastal artillery gun. 1944

In 1939, two air defense regiments were formed, armed with 20-mm M/40 machine guns, 40-mm M/36 anti-aircraft guns, 75-mm M/30 anti-aircraft guns, 75-mm M/37 and 105 anti-aircraft guns -mm anti-aircraft guns M/42, as well as 1500 mm searchlights M/37 and radar installations.

Swedish radar

In September 1939, in addition to Swedish-made tanks, the combat schedule of the Swedish Armed Forces included French and Czechoslovakian tanks. At this period the tanks in service were: small StrvM/37(48 cars), light Strv M/31 (three cars), StrvM/38(16 cars), StrvM/39(20 cars), StrvМ/40L og K(180 cars), StrvM/41(220 cars) and medium StrvM/42(282 cars). In addition, among the Swedish armored vehicles were armored personnel carriers Tgbil M/42 KP(36 vehicles), armored vehicles Landsverk L-180(five cars) and Pbil m/39(45 cars).

Since 1943, a self-propelled artillery mount was adopted Sav M/43 in the amount of 36 cars.

Swedish self-propelled gun Sav M/43. 1943

Until 1942, self-propelled guns, tanks and armored vehicles were part of the staff of several cavalry (tank squadrons) and infantry regiments:
- tank battalion of the Life Guards Gotha Infantry Regiment;
- tank battalion of the Skaraborg Infantry Regiment;
- tank battalion of the Södermanland Infantry Regiment;
- tank squadron of the Life Guards Hussar Regiment;
- tank squadron of the Life Guards Cavalry Regiment;
- tank squadron of the Skonsky Cavalry Regiment;
- tank squadron of the Norland Dragoon Regiment.

In 1942 - 1943 All tank regiments were consolidated into three separate tank brigades and the Life Guards Gotha Tank Regiment (two motorized battalions and one tank company).

Swedish tank M/42. 1943

The Swedish Air Force, which arose in 1926, by 1945 included about 800 aircraft of various types (fighters, attack aircraft, bombers, torpedo bombers, reconnaissance aircraft) and of various production - Swedish, German, English, Italian, American.

In August 1941, a parachute battalion (595 people) was formed as part of the Swedish Air Force. The paratroopers landed from Swedish-made gliders ( Lg 105) and by parachute.

Swedish glider Lg 105. 1944

The Swedish Navy was the only branch of this country's troops that took part in military clashes during the Second World War. In 1940, the Swedish Navy carried out mining of its territorial waters, and also in 1942 occasionally conducted military operations against the USSR Navy. As a result, Swedish Navy losses amounted to eight ships and 92 killed personnel.

By August 1, 1943, the Swedish Navy consisted of 228 warships - one air cruiser with 11 aircraft on board, seven coastal defense battleships, one light cruiser, 11 destroyers, 19 submarines, 64 patrol, minesweepers and patrol ships, 54 torpedo boats.

Swedish battleship Gustav V. 1943

The most likely enemy was the General Staff of the Swedish Armed Forces in 1940 - 1943. defined Germany, and in 1943 - 1945. - THE USSR. Sweden's military potential made it possible to provide serious resistance in the event of an enemy invasion. Also in April 1945, Sweden planned to land its troops in Denmark. This operation was prevented by the diplomatic efforts of the countries participating in the Anti-Hitler coalition.

Svergies Militara Bedredskap 1939 - 1945, Militarhistoriska forlaget, Militarhogskolan 1982.
Svensk Upplsagsbok, Forlagshuset Nordens Boktryckeri, Malmo 1960.

Compulsory military service in Sweden was abolished in 2010. However, after 8 years, Sweden will again return to compulsory military service.

On March 2, 2017, the Swedish Government approved the decision to resume compulsory military service starting in 2018. Boys and girls who are 18 years old will be conscripted for military service. The service life will be 1 year.

One of the main reasons for the resumption of army conscription is the inertia of the Swedes towards military service. Despite the widespread call to join the armed forces, Swedes are not willing to serve. This led, according to Swedish Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist, to understaffing of military units. According to official data, in 2016 the country's armed forces were short of 1,000 active soldiers and sailors, as well as 7,000 reservists.

At the same time, the majority of Swedish citizens support the resumption of compulsory military conscription. A 2016 poll found that about 72% of Swedes welcomed the idea of ​​reintroducing conscription to military service, while only 16% were against it.

One of the factors for the return of conscription to military service is the disruption of the stable situation in the Baltic region. Russian planes are flying too close to the Swedish border, and according to Swedish intelligence reports, Russian spies are operating in Sweden. And the Swedish side is not sure that the United States, led by President Trump, will come to the aid of Sweden in the event of a difficult military situation.

According to the Minister of Defense, about 4,000 people, primarily volunteers, will be conscripted into the army in 2018. Gradually, the number of conscripts is planned to increase to 8,000 people per year. The first to be drafted will be young people born in 1999-2000.

It is noteworthy that the main emphasis is on explaining and motivating young people, and not on fines and sanctions.

SWEDEN The basis of its security policy was the principle of “non-participation in military-political alliances in peacetime in order to maintain neutrality in war.” Strict adherence to it allowed the country to remain aloof from military conflicts for about two hundred years. The most important factors ensuring neutrality is considered to be a strong national defense and the willingness of the population to defend their country.

Sweden is an economically developed power, its GDP in 2017 reached $542 billion, its military budget was $5.96 billion. (1.1% of GDP), Population is 9.96 million people. The area of ​​the country is 449.96 thousand square meters. km. The length of the land border with Norway and Finland is 2205 km (including with the latter - 614 km), and coastline– 3218 km. Through the Baltic Sea, Sweden borders Russia, the Baltic countries, Poland, Germany and Denmark. The terrain in the southern part of Sweden is mainly open flat, in the central part it is hilly and wooded, in the northern part it is forested and mountainous. Forests occupy 53% of the country's territory, and rivers and lakes - St. 10%.

During the Cold War, in order to most effectively use society's resources to organize resistance to a potential aggressor, a system of general (total) defense was created, the basis of which was small regular armed forces, which in the event of an attack were supposed to be expanded by a trained reserve. This was ensured by the preservation of military service.

After the collapse of the Warsaw Department and the USSR, the country's course was revised and debate began about the advisability of continuing the policy of neutrality. In 1994, Sweden joined the NATO Partnership for Peace program, in 1995 it joined the EU, and in 1997 a new Military Doctrine was adopted, which consolidated the transition from total to “adapted defense”, which provided for the level of combat capability and combat readiness of the armed forces to be consistent with the probable threats national security, as well as the ability to highlight military units part of the international peacekeeping force. In 2001, a program for the development of the Armed Forces until 2010 was approved, where, along with maintaining neutrality, a departure from it in the future was not excluded. Instead of relying on “independent defense” and “armed neutrality,” the principle of “guaranteed security” was adopted, implying the possibility of external assistance, since “in the event of aggression against Sweden, democratic states will not leave it without their support.” Even then, unpredictability was listed among the most important threats to Sweden. foreign policy Russia. During that period, Sweden supported the NATO operation against Yugoslavia, plans to expand military cooperation within the EU, and became an active participant in peacekeeping operations under the auspices of NATO. However, in 2010, the idea that “there will be no war with the Russians” prevailed in the country, and conscription into the Armed Forces was abolished.

Since 2014, due to the deterioration of relations between the West and Russia, Sweden announced the beginning of a period of increased defense spending and new reform Sun. It provided for the return of conscription to the Armed Forces from January 1, 2018 and its increase to 50 thousand people. by 2019. As stated by the Swedish Minister of Defense P. Hultqvist: “We are faced with the fact that Russia annexed Crimea, we see aggression against Ukraine, and we see the number of exercises on our borders growing. Therefore, we decided to strengthen our national defense. And the decision to bring back the draft is part of this plan.” And based on the results of the work of the defense commission, at the end of 2017 it was proposed to revive the concept of “total defense”, which provided for “total mobilization of the country and planning how to direct all the forces of society to repel, in the worst case scenario, potential military aggression" Detailed plans for this were developed during the Cold War. To implement the concept of “total defense”, in addition to increasing spending on defense and reform of the Armed Forces, it will be necessary to allocate $48.85 million annually in 2018-2020, and $515 million in 2021-2025. These funds will be used to create infrastructure, train the population and counter-propaganda.

According to the concept of the new “total defense,” it is planned to mobilize the armed forces and territorial troops within a week after an attack on the country, and then hold back the enemy’s onslaught for another 3 months until large ground forces of the United States and NATO countries arrive in time to help the Swedes recapture the territory captured by the enemy. But at the same time, only 40% of respondents were in favor of Sweden joining NATO.

The main tasks of the Swedish Armed Forces, according to its Military Doctrine:

• ensuring the country's defense in the event of an armed attack;
• readiness to accept and provide military assistance;
• participation in the process of international crisis resolution and preventing the spread of conflicts to areas adjacent to Swedish territory;
• ensuring the protection of the country's population from non-military threats.

In peacetime, the main task of the Swedish Armed Forces is to protect the country's territory and train personnel.

In 2000, the Sun Sweden had 52.7 thousand people, and the reserves included 570 thousand people. under the age of 47 years. The Armed Forces were organized on a territorial basis into 3 joint commands: Southern, Central and Northern. Each of them had a division and several areas of defense of the Army, aviation and naval command(in Central - 2 naval) and logistics support regiments.

The service life in the Army and Navy was 7-15 months, and in the Air Force - 8-12 months. Up to 48 thousand reservists were called up annually for a short period of time (officers for 31 days, non-commissioned officers and specialists for 24, others for 17). During their stay in the reserves, they participated in 5 exercises and additional mobilization training.

Now Sun have 29.75 thousand people. operational forces, and from the beginning of 2018 conscription was restored again. Its organization, apparently, will be similar to that existing in 2000.

In 2000 G NE during peacetime, 35.1 thousand people read it. (including 24.2 thousand conscripts and reservists), and reserves (including in formations local defense and “hemverna”) - 450 thousand people. The Army had 3 divisions, uniting 13 brigades (6 mechanized, 4 infantry, 3 Arctic) and 3 artillery regiments (12 infantry regiments in total). Such a division could have 3-5 brigades (1-3 mechanized, 2-3 infantry or arctic) and 1 artillery regiment. The Army's armament included 537 tanks, 1,063 armored fighting vehicles (1,856 infantry fighting vehicles and 646 armored personnel carriers), 1,050 St. artillery systems. 100 mm (501 guns, 24 SP, 525 mortars), 55+ ATGMs, 600 ammunition.

Mechanized Brigade in 2000 it included 5 battalions (4 mechanized, rear), 2 battalions (artillery and air defense) and 4 companies (headquarters, communications, reconnaissance with 6 tanks and 6 infantry fighting vehicles, anti-tank with 6 anti-tank systems). In the mechanized battle there were 6 companies (headquarters with 6 120-mm mortars, 3 ZSU CV9040AD and 4 KShM Stripbv90, 2 tanks with 14 Leopard 2 and 1 ARV Buffel, 2 mechanized with 14 BMP CV9040 and rear). The brigade had a total of 118 tanks, 118 infantry fighting vehicles, 24 120 mm mortars, 12 155 mm FH77 howitzers, 6 ITOW ATGMs, 12 ZSUs, 9 Lvrbbv 701 self-propelled air defense systems and 9 RB-90 air defense systems.

The Army was then downsized and restructured to provide two brigade-sized operational forces, the composition of which depended on operational requirements.

In 2007, the Army already had 2 brigade headquarters, which could be assigned the following combined arms battalions (not counting other units): 4 mechanized type 122/90 (28 Leopard 2 tanks and 28 CV9040A infantry fighting vehicles), 4 mechanized type 90 infantry fighting vehicles CV9040A, 1 motorized infantry on Pasi armored personnel carrier, 1 light infantry, 1 airborne and 2 battalion-sized special forces units. The type 90 mechanized battle tank had 3 companies of 3 platoons (each with 3 infantry fighting vehicles) and a platoon with 4 Bv2062 armored personnel carriers and an RBS-57 Bill anti-tank missile system.

Now in SV 6.85 thousand people operational forces.

Administrative organization NE includes armored, mechanized, artillery formations and units, air defense and combat support units. Now the Army has the headquarters of two mechanized brigades, as well as 10 training and mobilization regiments (UMP, 2 combined arms, 2 armored, reconnaissance and sabotage, artillery, air defense, control and communications, engineering and logistics support). On the basis of these UMPs, 22 departments are formed. b-na (d-na) and 12 dept. mouth.

Brigade- the main tactical formation of the Swedish Army, designed to conduct combat operations independently or in cooperation with other types of armed forces. Brigades are the core for forming units in the event of a transition of the Armed Forces to wartime status. 2nd and 3rd mechanized brigades(formed during a period of threat or with the outbreak of war by the Skaraborg and Norrbotten regiments) are the main combat tactical formations of the Army. When brigades are deployed, all combat-ready ground forces units and units are subordinate to them.

Regiment- the main part of NE Sweden. In peacetime, all regiments are training and mobilization and represent training centers military branches that train personnel conscript service, as well as reservists. On the basis of a number of regiments, training centers (schools) operate, where specialists from the military branches are trained, research work is carried out, and methods of training and use of weapons and military equipment are developed. The regiments serve as a base for training personnel and mobilization deployment of wartime ground forces. The main part of the weapons and military equipment of units and units deployed on the basis of regiments is stored in the warehouses of the logistics department of the Armed Forces.

The training and mobilization regiments are listed below. They form:

• 1st Life Guards Infantry UMP (Kungsängen, 30 km from Stockholm): two battalions (guards, 12th motorized infantry, 13th security) and two military police companies (14th and 15th);
• 19th Norrbotten Infantry UMP (Boden): three battalions (191st and 192nd mechanized, 193rd Jaeger) and 3rd tank company;
• 7th Yuzhskonsky armored infantry regiment (Revinghead): two mechanized battalions (71st and 72nd);
• 4th Skaraborg armored tank unit (Skövde): two mechanized battalions (41st and 42nd), two tank companies (1st and 2nd), 18th battle group (for the defense of Gotland) ;
• 3rd (Life Guards) Hussar reconnaissance and sabotage UMP (Carlsborg): two battalions (31st airmobile and 32nd reconnaissance);
• 9th Artillery UMP (Boden): two artillery bases (91st and 92nd);
• 6th Götsky UMP Air Defense (Halmstad): two air defense battalions (61st and 62nd);
• UMP management and communications (Enköping);
• 2nd Gotlandic Engineering UMP (Eksjö): two engineering battalions (21st and 22nd);
• 2nd Logistics Support (Skövde).

Operational forces include 2 brigade headquarters, which can be assigned the following units: 12 battalions (5 mechanized, motorized infantry, light infantry (jaeger), airborne (airmobile), reconnaissance, security and 2 engineering), 4 battalions (2 artillery and 2 air defense), 7 companies (3 tank, 2 military police, NBC protection, transport), etc. The reserves include 40 battalions of territorial troops (hemvern).

In 2000, the Air Force peacetime had 8.4 thousand people (including 2.6 thousand conscripts and 1.8 thousand reservists) and 250 combat aircraft JAS-39, JA-37, AJS-37, AJSH-37, AJSF -37 (8 squadrons), 15 combat training SK-37, 2 RTR aircraft and 6 AWACS, 13 transport, 144 training and 120 helicopters. The annual flight time of the pilots was 110-140 hours. The Air Force included 3 air commands: Southern, Central and Northern. The STRIK semi-automatic surveillance and control air defense system coordinated all air defense units.

Now BBC peacetime have 2.7 thousand people. and 97 combat aircraft, the annual flight time of pilots is 100-150 hours. In the Air Force:

• Skaraborg Air Wing (F 7, Lidköping);
• Bleking Air Wing (F 17, Ronneby);
• Norrbotten Air Wing (F 21, Luleå);
• Helicopter air wing (3 squadrons);
• Air Force Academy.

In total, the Air Force has 6 squadrons of JAS 39C/D Gripen multirole fighters, a transport, reconnaissance and AWACS squadron (C-130H, KC-130H, Gulfstream IV SRA-4 (S-102B); S-100B/D Argus), 3 helicopter squadrons (AW109, AW109M, NH90 (SAR/ASW), UH-60M Black Hawk), educational part with Sk-60, bn guidance fighters and aerial surveillance.

In 2000, the Navy peacetime had 9.2 thousand people (including 4.2 thousand reservists). The Navy included 4 naval commands (Western, Southern, Eastern and Northern) and included a flotilla of submarines (9 units), 2 flotillas of combat boats (20 missile and 25 patrol boats), a flotilla of minelayers and 2 departments. d-minesweepers (20 units), 120 landing boats and 23 auxiliary vessels.

The peacetime coastal defense forces had 1.1 thousand people. In wartime, it was planned to deploy 6 brigades (including 2 mobile coastal artillery). In total, they included 6 amphibious tanks, 3 mobile tanks and 12 stationary tanks, and a mobile missile battery.

Now the Navy peacetime have 2.1 thousand people. (1250 fleet and 850 amphibious force). As part of the Navy:

• 1st Submarine Flotilla (Karlskrona): 5 (3 Gotland types; 2 Sodermanland types);
• 3rd Flotilla of Warships (Karlskrona): 6 (4 Visby-class corvettes, 2 Stockholm-class missile boats);
• 4th warship flotilla (Haninge): 3 (1 Visby-class corvette, 2 Göteborg-class missile boats + 2 in reserve);
• 1st Amphibious Regiment (Haninge): amphibious tank (12 81-mm M/86 mortars and 8 RBS-17 Hellfire ATGMs);
• Naval Academy (Karlskrona).

The bases include 6 naval bases (NAB) (Karlskrona, Muskö, Gothenburg, Malmö, Visby, Härnösand).

Special Forces have 2 groups (special operations and combat support).

Other troops(18.1 thousand people) include command and control bodies, combat and logistics support formations, incl. electronic warfare battalion and part of psychological operations, 3 battalions (2 rear and repair), 5 companies (transport and 4 medical), as well as other formations.

Paramilitary forces(750 people) include a coast guard with 25 patrol ships and boats, 2 landing craft and 3 DHC-8Q-300 aircraft.

Voluntary Auxiliary Organizations have 21.4 thousand people.

Armament The Swedish Armed Forces are given in table. 2

table 2

Weapon classes	Quantities and types of weapons
SV: Tanks	129:9 Leopard2A4; 120Leopard2A5
Tracked infantry fighting vehicles	354CV9040
Tracked armored personnel carriers	431: 281 Pbv 302; 150 BvS10 MkII
Wheeled armored personnel carriers	315: 34 XA-180; 20 XA-202; 148 HA-203; 113 AMV
BA MRAP	360RG-32M
Self-propelled howitzers	8 155 mm FH-77 BW L52 Archer
Mortars	296: 212 81mm M/86, 84 120mm M/41D
ATGM	ITOW
SAM	16 MIM-23B Hawk SAM launchers
MANPADS	350 RBS-70 MANPADS
ZSU	30 Strv 90LV
Air Force: Multi-role fighters	97 JAS 39 C/ D Gripen(including 14 rented by the Czech Republic)
Fighter weapons	UR V-Z AGM-65; RBS RBS-15F; UB GBU-12; GBU-39 UR V-V AIM-9L; IRIS-T; AIM-120B; Meteor
RTR aircraft	2 Gulfstream IV SRA-4 (S-102B)
Aircraft AWACS	3: 1 S-100B Argus; 2 S-100D Argus
Tanker aircraft	1 KC-130H Hercules
Transport aircraft	8:5 C-130H Hercules; 2 Saab 340; 1 Gulfstream 550 VIP
Training aircraft	67 Sk-60W
Helicopters	5 submarines NH90 ASW; 48 trans.: 15 UH-60M; 13 NH90 TTH; 12 AW109;
UAV	8 RQ-7 Shadow
Navy: Submarines	5: 3 Gotland; 2 Sodermanland
Corvettes	5 Visby
Missile boats	4:2 Goteborg; 2 Stockholm
Combat boats	129 Combat Boat 90E/H/HS
Patrol boats	9 Tapper
Minesweepers	7:5 Koster; 2 Spårö
Landing craft	11:8 Trossbat; 3 Griffon 8100TD
Amphibious forces	12 M/86 mortars; 8 SCRC RBS-17 Hellfire

SV weapons:

Tanks include the German Leopard 2A4 and Leopard 2A5 (the latter built under license in Sweden). There are 42 tanks in service, the rest are in reserve and training.

The infantry fighting vehicles are represented by modern Swedish CV9040 vehicles with 40 mm cannons. At their base, a ZSU, a KShM, a forward artillery observer vehicle, and an ARV were produced.

Tracked armored personnel carriers include Swedish vehicles (obsolete Pbv302 and modern articulated BvS10 MkII for arctic conditions).

Wheeled armored personnel carriers are represented by the Finnish XA-180, XA-202, XA-203 and AMV.

Wheeled MRAPs include the RG-32M from South Africa.

Self-propelled howitzers are represented by modern Swedish FH-77 BW L52 Archer (24 units planned in total).

Mortars are represented by Swedish M/86 and M/41D.

ATGMs include American ITOWs. It is planned to purchase a foreign ATGM (French MMP or Israeli Spike-LR).

The air defense systems are represented by the obsolete American MIM-23B Hawk systems, and the MANPADS are represented by the Swedish RBS-70. To replace the Hawk air defense system it is planned in 2020-2025. purchase in the USA 4 battery sets of Patriot air defense systems (4 AN/MPQ-65 radars, 4 AN/MSQ-132 battery command posts, 12 M903 launchers, 100 MIM-104E GEM-T missiles, 200 PAC-3 MSE missiles, 4 EPP field power stations III and 9 antenna-mast devices. It was reported that since 2018 the purchase of German short-range air defense systems Iris-T SLS (Rbs 98) based on the Swedish Bv-410 armored personnel carrier and with the Swedish Giraffe AMB radars has been reported.

The self-propelled guns include Swedish 40mm Strv 90LV mounts.

Air Force planes and helicopters:

Multi-role fighters include the Swedish JAS 39C/D Gripen aircraft. They are planned to be deeply modernized to the level of JAS 39E/F generation 4++ (60 units ordered)

The armament of the fighters is modern, it is represented by American air-to-ground missiles AGM-65 and Swedish anti-ship missiles RBS-15F, American guided bombs GBU-12 and GBU-39, American air-to-air missiles AIM-9L and AIM-120B, European IRIS-T and Meteor. A multi-purpose RBS-15Mk4 missile launcher is being developed (anti-ship missiles and for hitting ground targets) with a firing range of up to 1000 km, which can be used for strategic non-nuclear deterrence and will enter service in 2026.

There are modern aircraft (RTR Gulfstream IV SRA-4 (S-102B) and AWACS S-100/D Argus), as well as the American KC-130H Hercules refueling aircraft.

Transport aircraft include American C-130H and Gulfstream 550 (VIP), Swedish Saab 340.

The training aircraft are represented by the Swedish Sk-60W.

Helicopters include modern European anti-submarine NH90 ASW and modern transport: American UH-60M, European NH90 TTH, AW109 and AW109M.

UAVs include the American RQ-7 Shadow complexes.

Submarines, ships and boats of the Navy(all Swedish):

Submarines with air-independent propulsion include the new Gotland type (4,533 mm TT and 2,400 mm TT), as well as the Sodermanland (6,533 mm TT). 2 new A26 type submarines have been ordered and are due to be delivered to the Navy in 2022 and 2024.

The corvettes are represented by the latest stealthy Visby type (8 RBS-15Mk2 anti-ship missiles, 4 400 mm TT PLO, 57 mm AU, helipad). For them, a multi-purpose anti-ship missile system and missile launcher RBS-15Mk4 is being created (see above).

Missile boats include the Göteborg (8 RBS-15 anti-ship missiles, 4 400 mm TT ASW, 57 mm AU) and Stockholm (same) types.

Combat boats are represented by the Combat Boat 90E/H/HS type (carries 20 marines).

Patrol boats include the Tapper class.

Minesweepers are represented by the Koster and Spårö types

Landing craft include Trossbat and Griffon 8100TD types

Sweden produces weapons for the armed forces at its defense industry enterprises (using its own designs or under license), modernizes outdated models and buys weapons and military equipment abroad. The source of acquisition of weapons and military equipment is selected according to the criteria of technical and economic feasibility. The national defense industry is focused mainly on exports. Anti-aircraft guns, tracked infantry fighting vehicles, howitzers, anti-tank systems, MANPADS, anti-tank grenade launchers, radars and fighters were supplied abroad.

Sweden's ground forces are equipped mainly with weapons of their own production (licensed tanks, tracked infantry fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers, self-propelled howitzers, mortars, MANPADS and self-propelled guns). The weapons purchased abroad are represented by wheeled armored personnel carriers and armored vehicles, anti-tank systems and air defense systems.

The armament of the Air Force is mainly based on military-technical cooperation with other countries (production of JAS 39C/D fighters, IRIS-T air-to-air missiles), the purchase of helicopters, air defense systems, air-to-air missiles AIM-9L, AIM-120B and Meteor .

The naval equipment (submarines, ships and boats) is built at Swedish shipyards, and the weapons for them are of their own production.

Main NE development trends are:

• build-up mobile capabilities troops;
• introduction of the principle of “modularity” of military formations and military equipment of the Army, the transition from highly specialized units to diversified ones;
• a shift in the nature of training troops for combat operations as part of multinational formations.

In accordance with the “Aircraft Development Strategy for the period from 2016 to 2020” adopted in June 2015, the following activities are planned to be implemented:

• completion of the delivery of about 100 Finnish AMV armored personnel carriers and 24 SG FH-77BW L52 Archer of our own production;
• modernization of Leopard 2A5 tanks of the Swedish modification and CV 9040 infantry fighting vehicle, BGBV 120 ARV, mobile air target detection radar Giraffe AMV, radar counter-battery warfare ARTHUR, 81-mm mortars Grk m/84;
• the formation of a battle group of the same name within 5 years on the island of Gotland, consisting of mechanized and tank company and information security units (cyber troops).

Conclusions. The Swedish Armed Forces switched to a contract recruitment principle in 2010, and they were reduced from 53 thousand people. in 2000 up to 30 thousand people. in 2017, but the increased military threat from Russia forced the Armed Forces to be increased again to 50 thousand people, for which conscription and the territorial-militia principle of recruitment were returned in 2018 . Prepared reserves and territorial forces will allow, in the event of war, to strengthen the armed forces many times over. Sweden is surrounded by land by friendly countries, but it has extensive access to the sea and is vulnerable from sea and air. Therefore, it needs a naval and coastal defense force adequate to the threat, as well as an air force capable of protecting against sea and airborne assaults. The country's landscape is favorable for defense (wooded and mountainous-wooded areas with water barriers). But in the event of a large-scale enemy invasion, Swedish troops deployed in a week will be able to hold the defense for only about 3 months, and then Sweden is counting on the help of NATO forces. Although Sweden is still neutral, the possibility of joining NATO is being considered. The most modern weapons (domestic and foreign) are purchased for the Swedish Armed Forces, incl. Air defense systems, fighters and submarines. This is facilitated by a developed economy, the presence of the defense industry, high GDP and military spending.

Swedish Armed Forces comply modern requirements, presented by the country's leadership, incl. compatibility with NATO Allied Forces, and also ensure the solution of the tasks assigned to them, both independently and in cooperation with NATO forces.

TO BE CONTINUED. THE FULL VERSION OF THE ARTICLE CAN BE READ IN THE CIAC BULLETIN, No. 11_2018

Yuri Barash,

member of the Expert Council of CIACR