Innovation intermediation in total defence: the case of Combitech in Sweden

Debates on Sweden’s total defence often emphasise state agencies, leaving the intermediary work of commercial actors insufficiently examined. Adopting an innovation-intermediation perspective, we examine Combitech as a case. Drawing on participant observation, elite interviews, and document analysis, we identify two recurring functions – knowledge contextualisation and innovation facilitation – that make such companies significant beyond delivery contracts. Empirically, we show how Combitech co-ordinates heterogeneous actors, translates lessons from exercises into interoperable interfaces and standards, and stabilises cross-sector architectures. Conceptually, we specify the mechanisms through which intermediary work becomes influential – boundary-spanning translation, collaboration orchestration, and the concentration of evaluative capacity in systems integrators. The article clarifies how authority is distributed in contemporary total defence and raises policy questions concerning oversight and accountability.