The Norrland Dragoon Regiment reinaugurated in Arvidsjaur
In a festive ceremony in Arvidsjaur on 24 September, His Majesty the King of Sweden declared the Norrland Dragoon Regiment, K 4, reinaugurated. Also Prime Minister Stefan Löfven and Supreme Commander Micael Bydén attended the reinauguration.
The Swedish Armed Forces is to grow by five regiments and one air wing to strengthen Sweden’s defence capability in the years ahead. ”The regiment in Arvidsjaur is based on proud traditions. In depth combat capability in a challenging sub-arctic environment will now be enhanced”, said Supreme Commander Micael Bydén.
The future expansion of K 4 mainly concerns the war organisation of the regiment. There will be two war battalions instead of one, and both regiments will be extended. The number of conscripts will increase to 300, starting in 2025.
The establishment of this new unit should be seen in the light of the deteriorated security policy situation in the vicinity of Sweden. ”An important step has been taken today in Arvidsjaur, for a stronger defence of northern Sweden and thus of the country as a whole”, said Prime Minister Stefan Löfven.
The defence of the west coast reinforced
1 October 2021 was a historical day and a milestone in the Swedish Armed Forces’ and the Navy’s way towards a more robust defence. Accompanied by the Royal Swedish Navy Band, the Älvsborg Marine Regiment, Amf 4, was reinaugurated by Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden. The Supreme Commander and the Prime Minister also spoke at the ceremony. Both stressed the importance of the west coast harbours for the civil society as well as for the Swedish Armed Forces’ ability to protect the country.
By means of extended permanent presence, the Älvsborg Marine Regiment will contribute to a stronger defence of vital infrastructure along the entire west coast of Sweden, infrastructure that is equally important in times of peace, crisis and war.
”Building a regiment with new capabilities takes time, but we will be able to be operational from day one. Sweden’s war-deterrent ability will increase over time and our contribution to security and stability in the area will grow each day”, said Colonel Fredrik Herlitz, the new Commanding Officer of the Älvsborg Marine Regiment and the Gothenburg Garrison.
Additional units to be inaugurated in the near future are Uppland Wing, F 16, 14 October, Dalarna Regiment, I 13, 23 October, Västernorrland Regiment I 21, 16 January 2022, and Bergslagen Artilley Regiment, date to be announced.