The cold winter has been noticed by the Swedish Armed Forces, which has seen an increase in cold injuries, according to Officerstidningen. From January 1 to March 1, 2026, during the first two months of the year, 134 cold injuries have been reported, based on multiple reports. This can be compared to 47 reported cold injuries during the entire year of 2025, indicating a significant rise.
An investigation has now been initiated to examine the winter's cold injuries, as confirmed by sources. One of the most notable incidents occurred during an exercise earlier this year, where 13 conscripts at the Skaraborg Regiment in Skövde suffered various cold injuries after the heater in the tent stopped working, according to reports. The specific factors that led to this heater failure remain unknown, and it is unclear if other incidents beyond this case contributed to the overall increase in injuries.
The reported injuries range from a white spot on the cheek to deeper frostbite injuries and everything in between.
According to Skaraborgs Nyheter, Joakim Giöbel described the reported injuries as ranging from a white spot on the cheek to deeper frostbite injuries and everything in between. How many of the 134 cold injuries are considered severe or require long-term medical treatment has not been disclosed. According to Skaraborgs Nyheter, Joakim Giöbel also described that some injuries have occurred where those involved lacked adequate training, and in other cases, risk management has not been done as it should have been.
What corrective actions or policy changes are being considered as a result of the investigation, as well as the timeline for its completion and when findings will be made public, are still under review. The investigation aims to identify systemic issues and prevent future occurrences, with a focus on improving safety protocols and training standards across all units. The increase in cold injuries highlights concerns about preparedness and equipment reliability in harsh winter conditions, which are common in Sweden.
Some injuries have occurred where those involved lacked adequate training, and in other cases, risk management has not been done as it should have been.
The Swedish Armed Forces are expected to address these issues comprehensively to ensure the safety and well-being of personnel during training and operations.