Swedish Coastal Defence Over Four Centuries: War as a Changing Institution of International Society

Swedish coastal defense strategies evolved significantly over four centuries, shaped by changing norms and material factors such as geography, resources, and adversarial capabilities. This study reveals that Sweden's naval capacities developed in response to shifting understandings of war, reflecting broader institutional changes within international society. By analyzing sea power concepts, the research demonstrates how Sweden adapted its defense planning from the mid-17th century onward, offering a unique lens on the institutionalization of warfare. The findings highlight the interplay between normative shifts and tangible constraints, providing insights into the long-term dynamics of naval policy development.

Friedner Parrat, C. (2022). Swedish Coastal Defence Over Four Centuries: War as a Changing Institution of International Society. Scandinavian Journal of Military Studies, 5(1), 350–363. https://doi.org/10.31374/sjms.156