Defence cooperation between Sweden and Finland. Brothers in arms in the Nordic and beyond

Abstract

The security of Europe has been evolving in the last decade, causing the verification of national defence policies. Being members of the European Union but not NATO, Sweden and Finland are revising their defence policies to face complex threats. Their geographical proximity is one factor causing their close military cooperation, supported by building–up their national military and civilian capabilities to deter potential threat from Russia and face hybrid challenges. The progress is visible, especially over the last decade. They are not disregarding closing ranks with other Nordic countries, NATO and specifically the US recognising that a joint effort with those nations and organisations, sharing the same values and facing similar threats, is foundation of their security. The paper utilises the qualitative research approach using a case study, desk research, analysis, and synthesis as methods.