The Swedish army turns 500 years old – which was celebrated with a large military display in central Stockholm on Saturday.
The armed forces displayed the combat vehicles, planes and helicopters that will defend Sweden if war breaks out.
– Unfortunately, history points to the return of war, says army chief Karl Engelbrektsson to TV4 Nyheterna.
The Swedish army has existed for 500 years in 2023. On Saturday, the Swedish Armed Forces organized an all-day event at Gärdet in central Stockholm, where modern weapon systems such as the Archer and Patriot were displayed, among other things. During the 500 years that the Swedish army has defended Sweden, the country has been involved in 29 wars. The war in Ukraine and the security policy situation in the world have raised the question of whether Sweden is approaching war number 30.
– It is only in the modern part of history that we have been spared from war. Unfortunately, history points to the return of war. Whether we get involved or not, I don’t want to say. It’s important to be so well armed that we don’t get drawn into war, says army chief Karl Engelbrektsson to TV4 Nyheterna.
The war in Ukraine tangible
The army chief thinks it is noticeable that the big celebration is taking place in the shadow of the war in Ukraine.
– It’s a sharp time we live in. I think that’s why the interest is so great. It has crept up on us in a tangible way.
He says that the relationship between the military and the population is a key factor for a good defense.
– Everything is about the relationship with the people. Trust from the people you have to defend. Therefore, it is a joint task, and I think this whole day shows that, says Karl Engelbrektsson.
Displaying combat vehicles, weapon systems and the military’s helicopters and aircraft is important for people to have a better understanding of the defense, according to the army chief.
– I think many people now understand that military exercises are no game. It is a way to prepare for seriousness and to avoid seriousness, he says.
“Mixed feelings”
The 500th anniversary attracted both adults and children who wanted to take part in the festivities. Anna Nagander and daughter Ebba were two of the visitors who took part in the displays with great interest.
– It’s exciting for the children, but also for us adults, she says.
She also emphasizes that the war in Ukraine has affected the attitude towards the Swedish defence.
– There are mixed feelings considering everything that is going on in the world and in Ukraine. It triggers a lot of thoughts about those who live in this on a daily basis, says Anna Nagander.
Daughter Ebba found it exciting to take part in the demonstrations.
– It’s awesome, we’ve never seen it before, she says.