Sweden Fully Engages in Cold Response 2026 NATO Exercise with Significant Military Activity in Northern Regions

Sweden is participating fully for the first time as a NATO member in the multinational Cold Response 2026 military exercise, which runs from March 9 to 22 across northern Sweden, Finland, and Norway. This large-scale exercise aims to strengthen NATO's collective defense capabilities and enhance Nordic regional cooperation. Over 3,000 Swedish military personnel are involved, primarily operating in Finland alongside forces from Italy, France, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Northern Sweden, particularly the regions of Norrbotten and parts of Västerbotten, is experiencing increased military activity including low-flying and supersonic jets. These flights occur in two daily waves: a morning "Shadow wave" from 09:00 to 12:00 involving Swedish combat aircraft, and a "Main wave" from 14:00 to 17:00 with international participants. Although supersonic speeds are restricted below 10,000 meters over land, sonic booms causing loud bangs may still occur depending on weather conditions. Safety measures include the deployment of flares at high altitudes. The military works closely with local Sami communities to minimize disturbances to sensitive activities such as reindeer herding.

Since January, military units have been transiting through northern Sweden, with significant impacts expected on civilian traffic in Norrbotten starting March 9. Military columns, sometimes stretching up to two kilometers, may delay travel and require civilians to exercise caution, especially when overtaking due to visibility issues. Residents are advised to plan for longer travel times and avoid obstructing military movements.

Civilian drone users are reminded to adhere to existing regulations, maintaining safety distances as monitored through the Swedish Transport Agency’s drone map.

This exercise provides critical training in subarctic conditions, improving the mobility and combat readiness of NATO and partner forces while deepening Finland-Sweden defense cooperation. Participants emphasize the importance of these drills in reinforcing collective security in the Nordic region amid evolving geopolitical challenges.