The Swedish Armed Forces have conducted a readiness check to test the ability to defend Sweden in a fictional crisis situation where Russian units have infiltrated the country. The exercise involved live ammunition and was carried out in the Stockholm archipelago and at the Vidsel test range, according to an article on the Swedish Armed Forces' website.

– The readiness check is conducted unannounced and involves live ammunition, and it is meant to demonstrate that we have the ability to defend the country. That is, to act quickly, clearly, and professionally, said Fredrik Ståhlberg, acting head of operations management, in the article.

During the scenario, hostile units were discovered landing in the Stockholm archipelago, leading to operations involving both naval units and fighter jets. Coastal rangers from the amphibious regiment contributed with reconnaissance and target coordination.

Simultaneously, similar operations were underway at the Vidsel test range, where the army and air force engaged hostile missile systems with precision fire from Archer artillery systems and fighter jets.

The readiness check aims to ensure Sweden's defense capability and is reported to NATO headquarters in the Netherlands, according to the Swedish Armed Forces' article.

– It is incredibly important that we conduct this and show that we can accomplish the task. It is about both being able to defend ourselves and contributing to NATO's collective defense and deterrence, said Fredrik Ståhlberg.