The capability to operate in winter conditions with a great deal of snow and very cold temperatures is one of the most notable aspects of the Armed Forces. By tradition, Swedish units are excellent at training for and managing missions in winter conditions, a capability we are both proud of and determined to maintain.
Many people associate winter capability with the capacity to survive in thick snow and extreme cold. But to our way of thinking, merely surviving in such conditions is not enough. Soldiers and units must be able to perform their duties regardless of the climate conditions. Units that can operate in sub Arctic conditions can operate properly in any climate conditions.
There is a great deal of talk today about niches in the Swedish Armed Forces. There are different types of battle group in the world, but few with the capacity to operate in sub Arctic conditions. Swedish units with this capability and able to provide foreign units with winter training, are part of the contribution Sweden makes to joint EU defences. This is the Swedish niche. Winter capability is a security policy tool.
Defence resolution 2004 resolved that the Winter Unit was to consist of two departments, one in Boden and one in Arvidsjaur. The Boden department includes 9 services, including an Air Force service and Naval service, with other personnel from the Army. Arvidsjaur has 5 employees with a clear orientation to national and international training. There is also a unit commander. The unit has 15 personnel in total.
Telephone: +46 (0)921 - 34 80 00
Facsimile: +46 (0)921 - 34 91 87
E-mail: fmvinterenhet-i19@mil.se