Combat boats, underwater weapons: Sweden introduces new aid package for Ukraine

Sweden’s Minister of Defense, Pal Jonson (Getty Images)

Sweden has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine, which includes combat boats, according to Sweden’s Minister of Defense, Pal Jonson.

“By supporting Ukraine, we are also investing in our own security. If Russia were to win this terrible war, we would have much bigger security problems than we do today,” he said.

He adds that the 15th aid package is seen as an important signal to Ukraine on the eve of the anniversary of the war’s beginning, indicating that Swedish support will continue, as well as a signal to Russia that Sweden will not abandon a country devastated by war.

The new military aid package consists of 10 combat boats and 20 group boats, as well as underwater weapons such as mines and torpedoes, totaling 1.1 billion Swedish kronor.

The package also includes artillery ammunition compatible with the Archer system previously sent by Sweden. Additionally, the Robotsystem 70 anti-aircraft defense system, which is already in use in Ukraine, is part of the aid.

Anti-tank missiles, Carl Gustaf grenade launchers, and soldiers’ equipment such as hand grenades, medical equipment, and medical vehicles are also included.

Sweden’s assistance to Ukraine

At the end of November last year, it was announced that Sweden would provide financial assistance to Ukraine for the Grain From Ukraine initiative.

On December 11, 2023, the Prime Minister of Sweden, Ulf Kristersson, announced a new aid package for Ukraine totaling $133.5 million, including support for energy during the winter period.

Sweden, along with Britain, recently joined a drone coalition for Ukraine.

At the end of January, the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine announced that since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Sweden provided 93 humanitarian shipments totaling 1,108 tons of assistance to the energy sector of Ukraine.