Sweden declared an increase in military presence in the water area of the Baltic Sea. Thus, the country’s authorities want to answer the alleged “increased activity” of Russia. This is reported by Reuters.
“Our decision moves to a higher level of readiness, as well as correct the location of the armed forces is due to some one factor, but a general assessment of the situation in the region,” Peter Hulkivist in a conversation with the agency said. According to him, the military maneuvers of NATO and Russia countries have become comparable to the level of the Cold War.
Sweden’s military department announced the intensification of intelligence flights of marine aviation and the placement of an additional contingent on the island of Gotland. Comment the number of military contingent, defeated on the island, refused in the department.
Swedish military at the same time emphasized that the risk of an attack on the country is small, but general strategic tensions require to maintain the appropriate level of readiness.
On March 3, 2021, NATO countries held joint marine exercises in the Baltic Sea. In the course of maneuvers, the suppression of air defense systems of a potential opponent was worked out, reflected ships for ships, as well as demining of shipping regions.
In October 2020, against the background of tension growth in the Baltic water area, the Government of Sweden approved an increase in military spending. By 2025 they are planned to be increased by 40 percent, the number of troops is also expected.