After voting in the Hungarian Parliament, which approved Sweden's application, there is no obstacle to NATO's accession to NATO. What will the Stockholm Military Alliance get? And what are the advantages of Sweden itself from NATO membership?
The Swedish application for NATO accession, which was filed in 2022 in connection with the war of Russia against Ukraine, received its confirmation after the Protocol approved by Turkish President Recep Taiip Erdogan and the Hungarian Parliament. Hungary, which was the last country of the North Atlantic Alliance, which was approved by Sweden, approved this step on February 26. So, the Swedish path to NATO is now free from obstacles.
Sweden Introduction to NATO: What are the benefits for the Alliance?
Sweden membership will strengthen the defense potential of NATO in the Baltic region, ensuring the security of the Baltic States in the event of potential aggression by Russia. The military alliance will be more easily relocated by troops and equipment through the territory of Sweden, providing rapid response to threats in the region.
The Gotland Island will also have strategic importance, allowing you to control the Baltic Sea. The geographical location of Sweden becomes a key factor that makes NATO membership attractive to the Alliance.
Sweden Army: Small but effective
The Swedish armed forces, although numerically consist of about 38 thousand people, are highlighted in high modernity and efficiency. They have modern military equipment, including their own production of air forces and submarines. Swedish military also have considerable combat experience, have already participated in NATO missions, such as surgery in Afghanistan.
Why do Sweden need NATO membership?
For Sweden, NATO membership will mean guaranteed protection in the event of armed aggression. Article 5 of the NATO Agreement on Collective Defense provides that aggression against one country is considered as aggression against all. In addition, Sweden will receive the status of an equal member of the NATO Council, the Chief Alliance Governance, with the possibility of veto.
