Trendpills
Sweden has conducted a significant national security exercise, codenamed 'FREJA 2025', to test its preparedness for war. The simulation involved top-level participants, including King Carl XVI Gustaf, Crown Princess Victoria, the speaker of the parliament, and the prime minister. The drill aimed to assess the country's 'Total Defence' concept, which integrates both military and civil defense to protect national sovereignty and the population in a crisis or armed conflict.
The exercise simulated a scenario where Sweden was under attack, forcing decision-makers to operate under extreme pressure. It was designed to test the entire chain of command, from governmental agencies to local authorities, ensuring a coordinated response. This drill is part of a broader effort by Sweden to significantly bolster its defense capabilities in light of the deteriorating security situation in Europe. The Swedish government is heavily investing in its defense framework, planning to allocate over SEK 170 billion to military defense and SEK 37.5 billion to civil defense by 2030, with military spending projected to reach 2.6% of GDP by 2028.
Crown Princess Victoria, who has a military background, emphasized the importance of such preparations. In a recent interview, she described her military training as "more relevant than ever," highlighting the royal family's active role in the nation's defense readiness. The 'FREJA 2025' exercise underscores this commitment, involving the head of state in strategic decision-making during a simulated national emergency.
The renewed focus on preparedness extends to the general public. The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) has been distributing an updated version of the "If Crisis or War Comes" booklet to all households. This public awareness campaign aims to provide citizens with practical advice on how to manage during a crisis, covering everything from securing food and water to identifying disinformation. The comprehensive strategy of 'Total Defence' ensures that all sectors of society are involved in safeguarding the country, a doctrine that has been revived and modernized since the end of the Cold War.
