The rank is equivalent to rear admiral in the Swedish Navy.

Historically, the major general assumed approximately the same position as a Chief of General Staff did in the latter part of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century.

Following a proposal from the Swedish Armed Forces, the Government of Sweden decides on employment as a general of any rank.

[5][6] The command flag of a major general (and a rear admiral) is a double swallowtailed Swedish flag.

In the first blue field 2 five-pointed white stars beside each other.