Ukraine receives RBS 70 short-range air-defense system from Sweden

Ukraine received the Swedish RBS 70 short-range surface-to-air missile systems and at least one PS-70 type radar that can detect targets at distances of up to 40 km and at an altitude of up to 10 km, Defense Express reports. 

The 88th brigade press service published the first photo of the RBS 70 in late March and the photo of the PS-70 radar in April.

Ukraine was asking Sweden for the RBS 70 SAM in late August. Unlike similar systems that use an infrared homing system, the Swedish RBS 70 guides the missile to the target with a laser beam.

This allows hitting aircraft or other enemy targets, even if they are flying on the opposite course and maneuvering vigorously.

Thanks to its characteristics, the RBS 70 occupies an intermediate niche between MANPADS and "classic" short-range air defense systems, and here it is especially interesting which of the three modifications of this complex the Armed Forces received, the statement says.

If comparing this air defense system with the Stinger, the Soviet-made Igla, or the Mistral missile systems, it is significantly superior in terms of damage range. The ability to hit targets at a distance of more than 4-5 km allows the RBS-70 to provide air defense even in cases where other MANPADS cannot, the brigade stated.