närförsvar

Närförsvar, literally translated as "close defense" or "close-in defense" from Swedish, refers to a military doctrine and set of tactics focused on defending an area at the immediate perimeter of a formation or installation. This concept emphasizes the importance of repelling an enemy force that has already penetrated outer defenses or is attempting to do so at very close range. The goal is to prevent the enemy from achieving their objectives by engaging them directly and aggressively in the immediate vicinity of the defended area.

The principles of närförsvar are often employed in situations where a rapid enemy advance is anticipated or has already occurred, and where the primary defensive lines have been breached. It involves the use of readily available forces, such as infantry, support weapons, and even civilian personnel in some contexts, to create a dense and resilient defense. Key elements include overlapping fields of fire, the use of obstacles and fortifications at close quarters, and the ability for small units to act with a high degree of autonomy to respond to immediate threats.

Närförsvar is not a replacement for comprehensive defense strategies but rather a crucial component. It acknowledges that even well-established outer defenses can be penetrated and requires a determined effort to contain and defeat any enemy elements that manage to get close. This can involve establishing fighting positions within buildings, creating defensive strongpoints, and employing ambush tactics to disrupt and destroy enemy units attempting to exploit a breakthrough. The effectiveness of närförsvar relies on training, motivation, and the ability to quickly redeploy resources to critical points of penetration.