"Norsk verneplikt, avvik frå overordna konvergens med dansk og svensk innsatsforsvar".

Abstract

Abstract The Scandinavian countries Denmark, Norway and Sweden have presently introduced a defence based on flexible reaction forces. Does this imply that the national defence models are converging and are there any causes explaining this development? The defence models have many similarities. External causes, in particular the changed geopolitical situation after the cold wars end, rapid technological development and demanding international military operations have pulled the military models in the same direction. The common answer has been to reduce the overall military structures, introducing smaller, but more capable forces equipped with advanced technological military hardware replacing varying, worn out or obsolete hardware intended for the abolished mobilization armies. The ability for rapid deployment both nationally and internationally has come to the forefront in all models, this is necessary given that smaller forces have to cover a wide spectre of roles. Overall the models are converging, however there are areas diverging. The main diverging area is recruitment, the Norwegian combination of conscription and a defence based on flexible reaction forces stands out compared to Denmark and Sweden. Sweden is since 2010 introducing the AVF-model, whereas Denmark from 2004 on almost entirely uses enlisted soldiers. Model of Recruitment has implications regarding operational abilities of the armed forces. Key words in this master thesis are: Military models, RMA, technology, transformation, international military operations, converging military development, western trend towards AVF-model over conscription and a Norwegian diverging model of recruitment. This is a qualitative analysis based on the comparative historical method. A variety of sources are utilised, among others books, articles, research papers, reports and public information.