Lessons from the Maritime Total Defence Exercise (LÖST)

When Sweden exercises its total defence capability for the maritime sector, industry, authorities and the armed forces stand side by side – and RISE is there on deck, on the bridge and in simulators to capture lessons that strengthen both preparedness and collaboration.

During an intensive day on and around Donsö, around 200 participants practised how maritime transport could continue to operate even in a situation of war. Vessels went to sea, simulators were activated, and decision-makers from across society worked together as if it were real.

Industry took the initiative

That this large-scale exercise took place within the maritime sector is no coincidence. For shipping, risk and responsibility are part of everyday life – piracy, armed conflicts, cyber threats and regional unrest affect shipping companies every day. When the industry took the initiative to launch a large-scale total defence exercise, it was a natural step: cooperation and problem-solving are built into the DNA of this sector.

The exercise was carried out within BT POS (Sea) – the Swedish Transport Administration’s platform for collaboration between private and public actors in the transport sector – and in connection with Donsö Shipping Meet (DSM) 2025, one of the world’s key meeting places for the shipping industry.

RISE’s role – capturing lessons for future exercises

RISE participated as an analytical partner, focusing on the exercises conducted at sea and in simulators. We helped realise the planned physical training elements within the scenarios and analysed how decision-making, communication and technology function under pressure.

Our researchers combine operational experience at sea, in ports and within chartering, with research on supply chain resilience and crisis management – from pandemics to port conflicts.

By collecting and analysing these lessons, RISE contributes to strengthening both maritime and national preparedness. The results show how realistic exercises can improve decision-making, coordination and trust between industry and public authorities – factors that are equally vital across other transport modes.

In the end, total defence is not only about systems and plans – it’s about people working together when it truly matters.

The analysis is ongoing, and the final report will be published on Lighthouse’s website.