Norrlandsjäger and UK Rangers side by side

Since 2017, Sweden has been part of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) – a British framework for a rapid response force that aims to be able to operate in crises. Ten countries are currently involved in cooperation and the force can operate independently or together with NATO.

A little more than a week ago, the British rangers were training with the hunter-gatherers of the Cavalry Regiment at Norland.

The unique thing about this exercise is that for the first time we have combined Swedish and British soldiers into the same group. In this way, we gained a very effective exchange of knowledge in a short time, says Colonel Teddy Larson, Regiment Commander, Norland Dragon Regiment and continues:

– I admire the professionalism of the soldiers of both countries and how they immediately forged the cohesion of the group and a good cooperative atmosphere.

Small units with long endurance

Just like the Norrlandsjägara, British Ranger regiments are what are commonly called backpack units. Soldiers work in small groups and carry with them everything they need to carry out their missions in areas controlled by the enemy. They have the ability to stay behind enemy lines for a long time and there conduct reconnaissance and hit the most important resources of the opponent – for example, the functions of logistics, management and communications.

During the week, units practiced jamming and reconnaissance together, but also moments in medical care and advanced moves in the subarctic terrain. For British soldiers, the environment was new acquaintances.

– We in the 3rd Battalion did very good training with the Hunters Battalion. It was a great opportunity for us to learn how to operate in this expert environment and we look forward to returning for winter training,” said Captain Patrick Howard of Ranger Regiment.

Looking forward to more cooperation

The exercises were visited on Wednesday by Chief of Army Planning Department Stefan Sjoberg and British Defense Attache Martin Moore.

– This is one of several JEF duo and exercises planned this year, and working with an equally advanced force that is the Swedish Army provides excellent opportunities to learn from each other and to enhance our interoperability. Moore says it’s a real pleasure to work with like-minded people and we look forward to more opportunities to collaborate.