Swedish battalion officially integrated into NATO command in Latvia

This marks Sweden’s first major operational contribution to NATO’s standing forces since joining the alliance. Lindfors emphasised that Sweden is committed to its responsibility as a NATO member, with the deployment reflecting the army’s new role in collective defence.

The Swedish army 🇸🇪 has officially transferred authority over the 71.battalion to the multinational brigade in Latvia 🇱🇻, @NATOMNBLatvia, marking a significant milestone in Sweden’s contribution to NATO.#strongertogether #wearenato pic.twitter.com/8MWqROJ103

— Försvarsmakten (@Forsvarsmakten) February 7, 2025

Sweden became a NATO member on 7 March 2024, and since then, its military forces have integrated into alliance operations. Prior to this deployment, the 71st Battalion had been stationed at the Finland-Norway border, where it participated in the Nordic Response 24 exercise alongside NATO units.

The NATO multinational brigade in Latvia is led by Canada and headquartered in Ādaži, near Riga. It consists of approximately 3,000 troops on high alert, with additional forces deployed during exercises or heightened security situations.

The brigade includes troops from 14 NATO countries, with Sweden, Canada, and Denmark among the key contributors. Colonel Aspirault praised Sweden’s participation, stating that the addition of the Swedish battalion strengthens regional security and enhances NATO’s collective defence capabilities.

The brigade is part of NATO’s broader strategy to deter threats and ensure stability along its eastern flank. It is one of eight multinational combat groups established to reinforce defence across the region.

Sweden’s transfer of authority (TOA) process officially took place on 7 February, involving a structured transition of command. While the Swedish battalion is now under NATO’s command, Sweden retains employer responsibility, ensuring that its forces maintain their national operational framework.

Sweden has deployed a reduced battalion to Latvia, with some units remaining in Sweden to provide rapid reinforcement if necessary. Within NATO’s command structure, the Canadian brigade commander holds the same authority over the Swedish battalion as a Swedish commander would at home.

The handover ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials from Sweden, Latvia, and NATO. Among the dignitaries present were Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Minister of Defence Pål Jonsson, Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard, and Chief of Defence Michael Claesson.