The government has appointed Lieutenant General Carl-Johan Edström as the new Chief of Defence Staff. He succeeds Michael Claesson, who will become the new Supreme Commander of the Swedish Armed Forces from 1 October 2024.

- Carl-Johan Edström is a highly qualified future Chief of Defence Staff. The current focus for the Swedish Armed Forces is growth and the development of combat units, Sweden's integration into NATO, and support for Ukraine, says Defence Minister Pål Jonson (M), in the government's press release.

The appointment takes effect on 1 October 2024 and is valid until 30 September 2030.

- The task of leading the Defence Staff and Headquarters is something I undertake with great respect and pride. We face the challenge of continuing to grow and meet the high expectations placed on us in an uncertain global situation, says Carl-Johan Edström, in an article on the Swedish Armed Forces' website.

Edström, who is currently the head of the Swedish Armed Forces' Operations Command, will assume the role of Chief of Defence Staff with responsibility for leading and coordinating work within the Armed Forces. His duties include force generation, unit development, readiness, and resource allocation.

In his new role, he will support the new Supreme Commander, Michael Claesson, in ensuring that the Swedish Armed Forces are operationally ready and lead the development of combat units and Sweden's integration into NATO. Edström has previously served as Chief of the Air Force and Commander of the Norrbotten Wing.