On March 7, 2024, Sweden became an official member of NATO. Since then, it has made an unprecedented effort to modernize, reaching the goal of “2%” [of GDP devoted to military expenses] in its first year within the Alliance. In 2025, the parties represented in the Riksdag [the Swedish Parliament] also agreed to allow the state to borrow around 27.5 billion euros by 2030 to accelerate defense modernization, both civil and military. The range is wide, from new automatic rifles to state-of-the-art warships, along with a significant increase in strategic reserves and the renovation of the country’s 65,000 shelters.
“In Congo, Cyprus and Afghanistan”
The army is also acquiring 900 new drums and wind instruments. Because, yes, drums, trumpeters, and other clarinetists also have their role to play in the defense of the kingdom. “We will play in Congo, Cyprus, and Afghanistan, in front of Swedish soldiers. Our bands are an integral part of national defense,” comments Frigate Captain Roger Lodin, who commands the Swedish military orchestras.
The man oversees the three orchestras of the
