Aurora 26 is underway
Last week, allied forces from several countries arrived. The Swedish-led exercise Aurora 26 has now begun.
French units will be based in Skåne and Karlsborg. Photo: Felix Sundbäck / Swedish Armed Forces.
Photo: Felix Sundbäck / FörsvarsmaktenIn total, the exercise involves 18,000 soldiers from 13 countries and is being conducted across large parts of Sweden between April 27 and May 13, 2026.
The exercise aims to strengthen defence capabilities in cooperation with allies and to practice responding to a rapidly emerging and serious military threat. It includes all branches of the armed forces as well as the Home Guard and serves as a test of operational plans in a pre-war scenario.
The focus is on defending both Sweden and the alliance, as well as reinforcing strategically important areas.
Along the way, host nation support is provided in the form of protection, security, and transport. Elements such as accommodation, food, and assistance with fuel are included from the time the units arrive until they return home.
American soldiers arrived in Sweden during the weekend.
