In February and March, Sweden is contributing to NATO's incident readiness in Iceland through the Air Policing mission. In connection with the assignment, Supreme Commander Michael Claesson visited Keflavík Air Base to meet the Swedish troops and discuss the security situation.
– This is a clear expression of Sweden taking responsibility within the alliance. We contribute operational capability where it is needed and do so together with close allies in a strategically important area, says Supreme Commander Michael Claesson according to a press release from the Swedish Armed Forces (Försvarsmakten).
The Swedish force contribution consists of just over 100 personnel from Skaraborg Air Wing (F 7), Uppland Air Wing (F 16), the Air Staff, and the Air Combat School. The unit is equipped with the Jas 39 Gripen fighter aircraft and includes functions for combat control, meteorology, and logistics. This marks Sweden's first Air Policing mission in Iceland and constitutes the country's third fighter aircraft deployment within NATO in a year.
Meetings were also held with Iceland's Defence Chief Jónas G. Allansson, focusing on Arctic security and future military cooperation. As Iceland lacks its own armed forces, the country's security largely relies on international collaborations, where NATO and a bilateral agreement with the United States play crucial roles.
The discussions included planning for future joint staff exercises within total defence and opportunities for Icelandic personnel to participate in Swedish training.
– Sweden's membership in NATO has further deepened cooperation, especially in the Arctic. There is a shared responsibility and a clear desire to develop the cooperation long-term, says Michael Claesson.