Sweden gets a new ÖB here

Published 30 September 2024 at 18.06

Domestic. Michael Claesson took over as Sweden's new commander-in-chief during Monday's handover ceremony at Karlberg Castle. Thus, Micael Bydén's mission is completed, after nine years as ÖB.

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Fanborg and marching of the honor guard to the tunes of a band began the ceremony when the symbol of the commander-in-chief office – the baton – was handed over. From Micael Bydén to Sweden's new commander-in-chief, Michael Claesson.

– I take command! were Michael Claesson's first words on the post before the gathering of invited guests, representatives from the Armed Forces, other authorities and the Minister of Defence.

In his speech, Claesson stated that the focus will be to continue to strengthen the war organization and create conditions for effective and targeted deliver on future defense decisions.

– We must continue our integration into NATO where we must be responsive, but also act with self-confidence and clarity.

The Defense Forces' new ÖB ended the speech by urging Defense forces personnel to always hold professionalism, integrity and “values” high.

– My leadership must continue to be based on a few basic principles: clarity, mission tactics and joy of responsibility.

Outgoing ÖB, Micael Bydén now relinquishes responsibility as Sweden's supreme commander.

– The organization and the people in it have become like a family and now it is time to move out of the house, he said.