Sweden is gearing up to reveal its biggest military aid package yet for Ukraine, amounting to 7.1 billion Swedish kronor ($682 million), as reported by Dagens Nyheter (DN) on February 19.
This significant contribution marks Sweden's commitment to supporting Kyiv amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, bringing Sweden's total defense support since February 2022 to an impressive 22.2 billion Swedish kronor ($2.13 billion).
Details of the Aid
Scheduled for announcement in a press conference on February 20 by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Defense Minister Pal Jonson, this 15th tranche of support will draw directly from the stocks of the Swedish Armed Forces.
The funds are designated for replenishing arms previously sent to Ukraine and ensuring swift procurement of necessary equipment.
The specifics of what the package entails remain undisclosed.
Sweden's Role in Supporting Ukraine
Despite not being a NATO member, Sweden has been a crucial player in the coalition backing Ukraine, contributing advanced military equipment including:
Archer self-propelled artillery systems,
CV90 infantry fighting vehicles,
Strv 122 tanks, a Swedish variant of the Leopard 2.
The previous aid package, announced in October 2023, included artillery ammunition, infantry gear, and communication tools, totaling 2.2 billion Swedish kronor ($211 million).
Interest in Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets has been expressed by Ukraine, although Sweden has yet to agree to supply these aircraft.
However, Defense Minister Jonson expressed openness to the idea, contingent on Sweden's NATO membership progress.
Sweden's NATO Journey
Sweden's application to join NATO, submitted in 2022 following the escalation of the Russian invasion, has faced delays, primarily due to objections from Hungary and Turkey.
With Turkey's recent approval of Sweden's NATO bid, Hungary remains the sole obstacle to Sweden's NATO membership.
