Fresh Sweden offering - Ukraine Acquires Mega Aircraft to Counter Putin
Sweden revealed a new defense aid package for Ukraine, featuring a unique addition that's been crucial for Ukraine amid years of Russian aggression. They're set to receive a flying radar system, the Saab 340 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C).
This addition would enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities, allowing them to better combat Russian invaders.
Giant Arms Package
The Swedish aid package is packed with military equipment valued at 13.3 billion Swedish kronor (1.16 billion euros), which is quite significant given Sweden's size. It includes the remaining stock of the older infantry fighting vehicle PBV 302, that was removed from Swedish military service a few years back. While no specific numbers were shared, it's likely more than 100 infantry fighting vehicles will be delivered. Additionally, other support vehicles, spare parts, and maintenance for existing equipment, as well as communication gear, will be provided, says Stockholm.
Kiev can also take pride in the announced delivery of highly-requested artillery shells of the 155 mm caliber.
Novelty for the Ukrainian Military
The star of the deal is the flying radar system Saab 340 AEW&C with the Erieye radar installed. This system will enable Ukrainian forces to explore the airspace more effectively than ever before.
Up until now, the Russian Air Force has maintained extensive airspace monitoring with their A-50 aircraft, while Ukraine has been without a comparable system.
Though Russia has yet to fully establish air dominance over Ukraine, it has terrified the Ukrainian population with continuous drone attacks, cruise missiles, and increasingly, glide bombs.
With the Saab 340 AEW&C, the Ukrainian Air Force can now identify enemy aircraft, helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles (in a lower range) up to 400 kilometers away. This is a significant boost, as Ukrainian air defense has previously relied on ground-based radar systems with shorter ranges.
Hope Against Russian Glide Bombs
Another bonus: The Saab 340 AEW&C uses the tactical data link "Link 16".
This connection enables quick and secure transmission of crucial data even through electronic interference. Ukraine's Patriot air defense systems also utilize Link 16.
The F-16 warplanes used by Ukraine can benefit greatly from this data exchange. With the data transmission from the Swedish radar, the F-16s would not need to rely on their own radar systems, making them harder to detect for Russian air defense.
Furthermore, Sweden also promised the supply of air-to-air missiles, the AIM-120B type, which would enable the F-16s to pursue Russian bombers in the future.
In essence, this package will significantly improve Ukraine's air defense capabilities, making it harder for Russia to dominate the skies.
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