Swedish Innovation and Military Effect Impress NATO Chief
Cyber soldiers, artificial intelligence, and drones. Sweden demonstrated both strong defence capabilities and innovative power when one of NATO’s top commanders visited the country. – Sweden is a good example within the Alliance when it comes to the ability to challenge itself and continuously raise the bar, says SACT (Supreme Allied Commander Transformation), Admiral Pierre Vandier.
SACT Pierre Vandier and Supreme Commander Michael Claesson .
Photo: Axel Öberg / FörsvarsmaktenAs SACT , the French admiral Pierre Vandier is one of NATO’s two highest-ranking commanders and is responsible for ensuring future capabilities, development, and innovation within the Alliance.
During the two-day visit, discussions focused on NATO’s overall defence development and innovation capacity, its industrial base, opportunities to transform knowledge into military capabilities, and Sweden’s contribution to this effort. The admiral was introduced to Sweden’s 5G and cloud strategy, as well as the training of cyber soldiers.
– What Sweden is doing in the cyber domain makes a difference. I have seen similar efforts in the Baltic states, where they are also highly advanced in cyber. You can help move the Alliance forward, says Pierre Vandier.
Impressive Civil–Military Cooperation
A recurring theme throughout the presentations was the Triple Helix concept, which involves cooperation between academia, industry, and government agencies. SACT emphasizes that Sweden is an asset to the Alliance, contributing to NATO’s ability to move quickly in the right direction.
– Sweden has a high capacity for adaptation — that is impressive. Over these past days, I have seen with my own eyes what you can accomplish. I particularly appreciate the close connection between civilian industry, the defence industry, and conducting field tests. This is what is happening in Ukraine, and being able to replicate it in peacetime gives the Alliance momentum, says Pierre Vandier.
At the Air Combat School in Uppsala, Sweden’s innovative capabilities were showcased, including drones, artificial intelligence within the Air Force, and the counter-drone system LOKE — capabilities that underline Sweden’s important role in NATO. SACT also highlights Saab’s work integrating AI into the JAS 39 Gripen E as an area where Sweden stands out.
– The connection between air defence and AI, as well as fighter aircraft and AI, is one of the most striking aspects. Sweden is probably one of the first within the Alliance to have used it at this level. It is very promising, says Admiral Pierre Vandier.
Supreme Commander Michael Claesson hosted the two-day visit.
– I am proud of what we are showcasing. Swedish defence capability and industrial base are built on high expertise, close cooperation between civilian and military sectors, and a determination to constantly improve. That is how we create impact — for Sweden and for the Alliance. This visit confirms that the Swedish Armed Forces are at the forefront and that our contribution makes a difference in NATO, says Supreme Commander Michael Claesson.