Defence Cooperation Agreement with the US signed

Mr Austin received Mr Jonson at the Pentagon for talks on current security issues and enhanced defence cooperation between Sweden and the US. The main point of the meeting was the signing of a DCA.

The signing of the DCA simplifies the conditions that will apply when US forces are in Sweden.

The DCA is an important step in deepened military cooperation with the US. It strengthens both Sweden’s and its neighbouring countries’ regional security by conveying the engagement and actual presence of the US.

The US has previously concluded DCAs with several European countries, including Norway. DCA negotiations are ongoing with Denmark and have recently been concluded with Finland.

The DCA specifies the Swedish Armed Forces’ areas and facilities where the US will have access to visit and conduct activities. See the attached DCA for more details.

The DCA was signed by the Swedish Minister for Defence Pål Jonson and the United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on the 5th of December 2023. In order for the DCA to enter into force, the Riksdag must approve it and adopt the legislative amendments needed to implement it. Consideration in the Riksdag, followed by entry into force, should be possible in 2024.