Sweden's future Queen dons camouflage as she begins a rigorous training course to further her military knowledge and prepare for her future role as head of state.
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, 47, has officially commenced special officer training at the Norwegian Defence Academy. The Royal House of Sweden announced the news on 19 August, stating that the heir apparent embarked on the course to "further deepen her commitment within the Armed Forces and to be given a deeper understanding of tactics, military science and military strategy."
The training is an integral part of Crown Princess Victoria's ongoing commitment to broaden her knowledge and skills, ensuring she is fully prepared for her eventual role as head of state. The announcement was accompanied by photographs of the Crown Princess in military fatigues, including her welcome to the training and group shots with her fellow cadets. During the training, she will hold the rank of cadet.
As the eldest child of King Carl XVI Gustaf, 78, Crown Princess Victoria is first in line to the Swedish throne. King Carl XVI Gustaf, the most senior representative of the Swedish Armed Forces, is expected to be succeeded by his daughter upon his accession. This rigorous training programme is a testament to Crown Princess Victoria's dedication to upholding this historical tradition and fulfilling her future responsibilities.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new undertaking, Crown Princess Victoria said in a statement shared by the Royal House: "With great anticipation, I continue my military education at the Norwegian Defence Academy today. Together with the other cadets, I will, among other things, immerse myself in tactics, military science and military strategy."
She continued, "My ambition is now to put all my energy into officer training in order to be able to represent Sweden and the Armed Forces in the best possible way in the future. I look forward to an interesting and rewarding study time together with my new coursemates!"
The news of Crown Princess Victoria's training was first reported by Reuters in April, highlighting Sweden's recent membership of NATO in the wake of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. While the duration of the training programme has not been publicly disclosed, the Swedish Armed Forces website states that the Special Officer Training (SOFU) course typically lasts between 20 and 25 months. The programme, aimed at individuals with existing academic degrees, provides a comprehensive blend of theoretical and practical instruction.
This is not Crown Princess Victoria's first foray into military training. In 2003, she participated in basic military training at the Swedish Armed Forces International Centre. In 2022, she furthered her knowledge of Swedish defence with another course, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to military education.
Crown Princess Victoria's dedication to her future role is further exemplified by her recent visit to Swedish military personnel training Ukrainian soldiers as part of Operation Interflex in November 2023. The visit, undertaken alongside her husband, Prince Daniel, during their trip to England, showcased her active involvement in international military collaborations.
Crown Princess Victoria's military training is a significant step in her preparation for the throne, demonstrating her commitment to serving her country and upholding a long-standing royal tradition. Her dedication to continuous learning and her proactive involvement in national and international defence initiatives underscore her dedication to her future role as head of state.
