Today, other countries must apply in good time to gain access to Sweden or pass through Swedish territory with military vehicles.
This applies, among other things, to aircraft and ships, such as during fleet visits, exercises and overflights on the way to another country.
At present, each case is decided by the government, which means that the handling can take a long time.
Now, however, they want that process to go faster.
From the turn of the year, therefore, the Armed Forces will be allowed to make decisions about access.
- This is a NATO adaptation.
In connection with our integration with NATO, we know that there will be more foreign aircraft and warships and then you cannot make government decisions every time it slows down the pace.
The point of this is to improve the conditions for giving and receiving military aid.
It is a natural step in Sweden's integration with NATO, says Defense Minister Pål Jonson (M).
Can be extended
The armed forces will continue to keep the government informed.
The decision initially applies for one year and can then be extended.
- We give a framework decision that all NATO countries, all EU countries and Switzerland can decide on.
Then they can hand over decisions to us, says Pål Jonson.
- Sweden's government has never so far said no when we have received a request like this, therefore it is natural to provide the conditions for the Armed Forces to decide.
Easier to start exercises
Commander-in-Chief Micael Bydén believes that the decision will make things easier for the Swedish Armed Forces.
- It will be easier, it will be a faster process for us to be able to, for example, start an exercise more spontaneously early, and that can also be connected to our operations at home, that is to say to strengthen, says Micael Bydén to SVT.
- That we get that mandate and responsibility will facilitate our planning and implementation of exercise activities together with our partners.