kärnexperimentet

Kärnexperimentet, meaning "nuclear experiment" in Swedish, refers to a clandestine operation conducted by Sweden during the Cold War. The primary goal was to develop a Swedish nuclear weapon capability. In the aftermath of World War II, Sweden, despite its neutrality, felt vulnerable due to the geopolitical landscape and the nuclear threat posed by major powers. This led to a secret research program initiated in the late 1940s.

The program, formally known as "Projekt 075," involved scientists and engineers working on various aspects of nuclear technology, including uranium enrichment and plutonium production. While Sweden possessed technical expertise, the project faced significant challenges, including the scarcity of fissile materials and the immense cost associated with nuclear weapons development.

By the early 1960s, the political and international climate shifted. The growing awareness of the dangers of nuclear proliferation and Sweden's commitment to non-alignment led to a re-evaluation of the program. Ultimately, the decision was made to abandon the pursuit of nuclear weapons. Instead, Sweden focused its resources on developing conventional military capabilities and contributing to international arms control efforts. The existence of Kärnexperimentet remained classified for many years, only coming to light through declassified documents and historical research, highlighting a complex period in Swedish defense policy.