This autumn sees the start of training for the Nordic Battlegroup (NBG), a task force of about 2,000 people from five countries under Swedish leadership. The force will be on standby for six months, ready to be quickly deployed in a military operation somewhere in the world.
The headquarters have been located at the Armed Forces Command and Control Regiment since last summer. Their command centre is currently being prepared by a company of conscripts. The operation will be able to be controlled from here if the force is deployed.
“There’s absolutely everything you need here: Electricity, water, fuel and other necessities. We can cope with anything from the coldest winter to the hottest summer,” says Company Commander Freddie Cederqvist.
Inside the heated tents there are computers, telephones, printers, photocopiers and other items that resemble a modern office environment. The staff has access to the same networks as the units out in the field in order to be able to control activities from here. Everything is set up and operated by soldiers with different specialist knowledge.
“Everyone from carpenters and electricians to datacom specialists will work here. Everyone is needed in order to achieve the goal,” says Company Commander Freddie Cederqvist.
The command centre is situated a short distance from the conflict zone. Smaller units including vehicles with anti-splinter armour protection can go closer to the core. They have the same communications equipment as at the command centre.
Many of the conscripts have applied for employment in the NBG after demobilisation. One of them is Nathalie Sköld, Deputy Chief of the Registry (STEX). Her task is to assist the staff with the drawing-up of documents, copying, print outs and more, day and night.
“I’m very happy with my post. It’s perfect if you enjoy being service-minded,” says Nathalie.
She is now awaiting notification about admission to the NBG.
“The entire company is focused on the NBG, so we know what it’s all about. It can only be better if we can also be involved later,” she says.
In a few weeks time, the company will train together with the staff for the first time. Then, the tents will fill up with staff officers and it will be time for the conscripts to really show what they are made of.