As part of Sweden’s ongoing support for Ukraine, the Nordic country has confirmed the provision of a new military aid package focused on strengthening the self-propelled artillery capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This includes the acquisition of new Archer self-propelled howitzers for transfer, along with Arthur counter-battery radars.
For over three years of conflict, Sweden, like many other European nations, has provided successive aid packages to Ukraine. Through these efforts, Stockholm has supplied Kyiv with CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, Leopard 2 tanks (designated Stridsvagn 122), PBV 302 armored personnel carriers, and Saab 340 AEW&C airborne early warning aircraft.
Regarding fire support, Sweden previously donated eight Archer artillery combat vehicles, along with ammunition and support packages, which have been highly valued by Ukrainian crews, as highlighted by Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson. However, as the conflict has demonstrated, the need for additional artillery platforms remains constant.
In response to this situation, the Swedish government has confirmed the purchase of a total of 18 new Archer self-propelled howitzers for subsequent transfer to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. These will be procured through the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV).
Additionally, this latest package—the 28th announced—includes Arthur counter-battery radar systems, used to “…detect artillery shells and calculate their origin in order to facilitate the neutralization of enemy artillery.”
Lastly, further financial aid has been confirmed, primarily aimed at producing artillery shells and increasing the manufacture of locally developed artillery systems such as the Bohdana, which is already being deployed by Ukrainian artillery units on the battlefield.
About the Archer
The Archer is an artillery combat vehicle armed with a 155mm/L52 FH-77 gun, mounted on a 6×6 Volvo A30E all-terrain truck. The vehicle features an armored cabin that provides protection against artillery shrapnel, small arms fire, mines, and NBC threats. Its crew consists of three or four soldiers (commander, driver, and one or two operators). For self-defense, the Archer is equipped with a remotely operated CROWS weapon station, capable of mounting medium or heavy machine guns.
The Archer was designed for rapid deployment and firing, increasing its survivability against counter-battery fire. It can store 21 rounds of 155mm ammunition, with a firing range between 30 and 50 kilometers. Additionally, the system is compatible with precision-guided munitions such as BONUS and Excalibur, both of which are in service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
