In September Sweden will carry out its largest maritime defense drill since World War II. Furetank will participate with a tanker vessel in the exercise, which aims to test how the shipping industry and national defense together can support the country in times of crisis and war.
The operation takes place during the Donsö Shipping Meet on 1 September. The scenario for the exercise is set in a state of highest alert, where Swedish supply lines must be secured, and vessels with vital cargo need to be guided safely into Swedish ports.
Several shipping companies will participate with a wide range of vessel types and personnel. In fact, given the number of involved parties, this will be the largest maritime defense exercise in Sweden since World War II. As part of the drill, one of Furetank’s Vinga-class tankers will be moored at the deepwater quay on Furetank’s home island of Donsö, near Gothenburg.
The exercise is being coordinated by BT-POS Sjö and the Swedish Transport Administration, in close collaboration with the Swedish Armed Forces, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB), and numerous shipping companies and maritime organizations. Carl Carlsson, chairman of BT-POS Sjö was interviewed by Sjöfartstidningen and praised the willingness of all parties to contribute.
“Drawing on the lessons of World War II, we know that shipping is likely to be among the first sectors affected if the worst were to happen. Compared to other industries and modes of transport, we are more immediately exposed—so all actors and functions involved in moving vessels in and out of ports need to train together to ensure coordination in a real emergency,” Carl Carlsson told Sjöfartstidningen.
