Home Guard training Ukrainians in the UK: “a paradigm shift”

Last year the government decided that the armed forces would contribute instructors to Interflex, a training initiative in Great Britain. Sweden is one of the many countries that support the educational initiative. The training takes place at a number of British training facilities, where Ukrainian personnel receive basic military training so that they are as prepared as possible to contribute to the defense of their country.

From the summer of 2023, the combat squadron Hemwarnet will take over after the Army and will serve in several training rounds. The director of the Swedish Home Guard, Laura Svan Vrede, is incredibly proud of how the Home Guard instructors solve the task.

– Home Guard work has always been at home, but now we are witnessing a paradigm shift. In future, the Home Guard should be replaced and take on other duties.

Sweden’s extensive support for Ukraine is partly affecting efforts and other missions for the Swedish Armed Forces. Through its contribution to Interflex, the Home Guard can free up other security branches. Home Guard instructors have a habit of training people with no military experience in a short period of time.

– For me, applying to contribute directly to educating Ukrainians was a no-brainer. Enemy, says Deputy Squadron Leader at Interflex 2023.

Swedish education systems work well

The task of managing Interflex alternates between the various military regions. Initially, the Western Military Region coordinated the training effort and was responsible for managing the first effort now back in Sweden.

– The training team is staffed by both staff members from military regional groups and volunteer Home Guards. Volunteer instructors have taken time off from their civilian jobs to support the mission. An effort would not be possible without the support of employers and families, says Peter Hederstedt, head of the Western Military Region.

When the posts were advertised, there were many applicants, the willingness to participate and contribute was high, and in the first round of training, all Home Guard battalions in the Western Military Region were represented.

The company commander for Interflex 2023 in the Western Military Region summarizes the first round of Home Guard training:

–We have provided basic education to Ukrainians. Recruits have become soldiers. They have a stable base and foundation for continued professional training when they return home. Our training methods work well and are appreciated.