Johan Pekkari becomes new Army Chief in Sweden

Major General Johan Pekkari has been appointed new Army Chief from 28 August, after Per Nilsson served as acting Army Chief since Jonny Lindfors became Sweden's Military Representative (MILREP) to NATO and the EU. The appointment leads to a series of other promotions and changes of command within the Swedish Armed Forces, including at the Strategy Section and the 1st Division.

Jacob Wollheimsweden18 Aug 2026Updated 4 Sept 2026Original Source

The Supreme Commander of the Swedish Armed Forces, Michael Claesson, has appointed Major General Johan Pekkari as the new Chief of the Army. He will take up the position on 28 August.

Since the establishment of the Swedish Armed Forces Headquarters (Försvarsstaben) in 2023, Johan Pekkari has served as head of the Strategy Unit (FST STRA). He succeeds Brigadier General Per Nilsson, who has served as acting Chief of the Army since Jonny Lindfors left the post to become Sweden's military representative to NATO and the EU on 1 July. Per Nilsson will continue in his regular position as Deputy Chief of the Army.

"I am looking forward to returning to the Army and, together with its personnel, taking on the branch's important tasks," says Johan Pekkari, according to the Swedish Armed Forces.

Johan Pekkari will be succeeded as head of the Strategy Unit (FST STRA) by Brigadier General Andreas Odung, currently deputy head of the unit. Andreas Odung will be promoted to Major General on 31 August.

Brigadier General Michael Carlén is stepping down as commander of the 1st Division and will take up the post of deputy head of the Strategy Unit (FST STRA) on 14 September. Colonel Magnus Frykvall will be appointed the new commander of the 1st Division on 13 September and will be promoted to Brigadier General in connection with this.

Common questions about the article

Questions and answers generated automatically from the article content.

01When does Johan Pekkari take up his post as the new Chief of Army in Sweden?

Johan Pekkari takes up his post as the new Chief of Army on 28 August, according to the appointment made by the Supreme Commander. Since the establishment of the Defence Staff in 2023, he has served as Head of the Strategy Unit, FST STRA. The appointment means he returns to the Army in a leading role. Last fact-checked: 2026-08-18.

02Who has served as acting Chief of Army before Johan Pekkari was appointed?

03What other changes in positions are taking place in connection with Johan Pekkari becoming Chief of Army?