United to win: Sweden to provide Ukraine with €400 mln in military aid

The Swedish government announced a new military aid package for Ukraine, worth SEK 4.6 billion (around EUR 400 million).

The Swedish government's press service reported that.

This package is designed to address Ukraine's most pressing military requirements and provide opportunities for future actions. It includes provisions for:

• donating equipment,
• making direct purchases,
• providing equipment sets,
• and offering financial aid.

As part of the 17th package, Sweden is entering a new stage of military assistance, focusing more on purchasing rather than simply donating. The package encompasses three significant deals for acquiring essential equipment, with a combined worth of approximately SEK 600 million (equivalent to roughly EUR 52 million).

• Military equipment

The aid package comprises SEK 500 million (approximately EUR 43 million) worth of ground-action military equipment. Sweden has previously supplied Ukraine with anti-aircraft missile systems, and this package also includes extra Robot 70 anti-aircraft missiles to bolster its air defenses.

Ukraine has also asked for anti-tank weaponry, which the package contains in the form of anti-tank shells, grenade launchers, and mines. The package includes anti-pollution gear, mortar ammo, training materials for inexperienced soldiers, and winter gear for Ukrainian troops.

Additionally, the package includes naval support in the sum of SEK 500 million (approximately 43 million euros) for safeguarding Ukrainian commercial vessels and providing aid to ground forces operating in areas with ongoing hostilities.

The latest aid package from Sweden also includes six extra Stridsbåt 90 combat boats, providing naval support for the Ukrainian Navy's maintenance units.

• International initiatives to support Ukraine

As a part of the 17th military aid package, the Swedish government has also earmarked slightly over SEK 700 million (approximately 61 million euros) in financial contributions to various foundations and multi-national initiatives for 2024. These international programs, which involve several countries, have demonstrated their effectiveness in facilitating significant weapons and equipment purchases.

Some initiatives include short-term collaborative projects, like ammunition programs, and long-term resources, like the UK-led International Fund for Ukraine. These efforts aim to coordinate and enhance support for Ukraine's defense requirements.