Sweden Contributes to NATO Operation Arctic Sentry

“As a NATO Ally, Sweden has a responsibility to contribute to the security of the entire territory of the Alliance. The Arctic region is becoming increasingly important from a strategic perspective. Our participation in Arctic Sentry demonstrates that we are a loyal and active Ally that takes responsibility for our common security. This reinforces deterrence, safeguards our shared interests and contributes to stability in a region that is critical to Europe and transatlantic cooperation,” says Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.

“When Russia arms itself and cooperation between Russia and China intensifies, the Alliance needs to consolidate its presence and situational awareness in the Arctic region. We provide the know-how, capabilities and resources to strengthen deterrence and safeguard critical infrastructure. This is how we are taking responsibility for our security and for the cohesion of the Alliance,” says Minister for Defence Pål Jonson.

Security in the Arctic is a shared responsibility among NATO allies. Sweden, as one of NATO’s seven Arctic states, welcomes an increased NATO presence in the region, which represents a clear expression of the alliance’s strength and unity.

Arctic Sentry brings together ongoing and future NATO activities in the Arctic region, such as Arctic Endurance led by Denmark and Cold Response led by Norway. During Cold Response, parts of the concept for FLF Finland will also be exercised.

Sweden will initially contribute to Arctic Sentry with JAS 39 Gripen aircraft in the area around Iceland and Greenland.