More Barrels & More Weapons Sweden Just Turned Up The Heat On Ukraine Aid

An Archer self-propelled artillery system being fired in Finland. Image: Corporal Rebecca Brown, UK MOD © Crown copyright 2024

The Swedish Government has taken a supplementary decision on procurement of approximately SEK 1.5 billion in defence materiel to support Ukraine. This includes at least 10 new gun barrels for the previously donated Archer artillery system, long-range strike capability, underwater systems and logistics equipment.

The decision implements parts of support packages 18 and 19 to Ukraine, which were previously communicated.

“This decision puts pressure on Russia’s invading troops on the ground, underwater and in the air. It will also allow Ukraine to continue using the Swedish Archer system that has performed well on the battlefield,” says Minister for Defence Pål Jonson.

New gun barrels for the Archer system

Artillery warfare in Ukraine is extremely intensive and gun barrels have rapidly been worn out. Ukraine has requested new gun barrels for the eight Archer systems that have been in active use for a long time.

Today’s decision means that the Defence Materiel Administration can expand the existing order of gun barrels that are already in production for the new Archer systems that have been purchased for Ukraine and Sweden. More than 10 barrels will be sent to Ukraine.

Underwater systems and long-range capability

The Government has also decided to support Ukraine with certain underwater systems and long-range strike capability. This will take place through expanded orders of materiel included in previous support packages and procurement of existing high-performance materiel that is needed in Ukraine.

Logistics package

Ukraine’s military forces have a need for effective transport and handling of heavy goods. The Swedish Government has therefore decided to donate a logistics package that includes a large number of trucks and wheel loaders procured through the Defence Materiel Administration’s framework agreements with Volvo and Scania. The package also includes an innovative system for faster loading and unloading of containers.

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