"Whiskey on the Rocks" - The U137 Grounding in Torumskär
In the early morning darkness of October 27, 1981, an event occurred that would shake Sweden and draw international attention. The Soviet submarine U137, a Whiskey-class vessel, ran aground at Torumskär in Gåsefjärden, deep within a Swedish military protection zone near Karlskrona.
A Dramatic Grounding
Approximately 10 kilometers southeast of Karlskrona, in the heart of the Blekinge archipelago, the Soviet submarine was firmly stuck on the rocks of Torumskär. Local islanders reported intense engine noise as the crew desperately tried to maneuver the submarine off the rocks. Despite running the diesel engines at full throttle, the submarine remained steadfastly grounded.
"Whiskey on the Rocks" - The Series
A Swedish series inspired by true events, premiered on SVT Play on December 25, 2024.
An International Crisis Unfolds
The incident quickly became global news, marking one of the Cold War's tensest moments in Swedish waters. The grounding, deep within a sensitive military zone, raised serious concerns about Soviet underwater operations along Sweden's coasts. What initially seemed to be a simple navigational error rapidly escalated into a diplomatic crisis between Sweden and the Soviet Union.
A Historic Site in Modern Times
Today, Torumskär stands as a silent witness to this dramatic chapter in Swedish history. The site has become a popular destination for history enthusiasts and those eager to understand the Cold War's impact on Sweden. Visitors can still see the dramatic rock formations where U137 ran aground, serving as a poignant reminder of how close the Cold War came to Sweden's shores.
Visit Torumskär
For those wishing to experience this historic location, occasional boat tours are arranged to the area. These tours offer visitors the chance to view the grounding site up close and hear guides recount the dramatic events of 1981.
Practical Information:
- Boat tours depart from Karlskrona.
- Current tours are announced on the events calendar at visitkarlskrona.se.
- Advance booking is usually required.
- For more information and reservations, contact: Karlskrona Tourist Center.
The U137 incident remains a powerful reminder of Sweden's role during the Cold War and how an ostensibly isolated event could have far-reaching international consequences. Visiting the grounding site provides a unique glimpse into one of the most dramatic episodes in modern Swedish military history.
