- I have my degree here, closest to the heart, says Per-Erik Pallin and pats the three stars on the chest.

Three stars represent the degree of "captain".

A degree he held for 26 years.

But at the turn of the year, he has to give it up.

- It is a strong part of my professional identity.

That identity is now being taken away from me, he says.

Many of those who are forced to change degrees are, just like Per-Erik Pallin, upset and think that this is a completely unnecessary change.

Gets rid of the degree

In total, there are about 9,000 officers in Sweden.

About 2,000 of these will lose their degree at the turn of the year.

They will be transferred to a group of officers called "specialist officers" and also receive a new degree.

Whoever is a "captain" today becomes a "fan junkie" in the new system.

At present, this means a step down in rank, or as it is called in the military, the order of duty.

But this will be addressed during the year, says Jonny Lindfors, brigadier general and responsible for the introduction of the new system.

- It will not be about a reduction of the degree, he confirms.

Not clear

The reason for the change is that the officer training has been redone.

At present, those who, for example, have the degree of "captain" can thus have different education.

The decision to redo the officer system was made as early as 2008, but it is only now that it is being implemented.

Much due to the fact that the Armed Forces is now being expanded.

- It is not clear enough what the role of the officers concerned is.

When we are going to build new units, we want it to be clear, states Jonny Lindfors.

What do you think about the fact that many feel disappointed?

- I have a great understanding that it is a strong connection to a professional identity, which you are very proud of and for which you fought hard.

But he adds that it is necessary to make this change now.

- I still believe and hope that you can feel a professional pride and that it is the competence, what you actually do, that is the most important factor.