Nordic allies back Ukraine: 40 armoured vehicles ordered for defence efforts

On December 6, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and Denmark's Ministry of Defence's Materiel and Procurement Agency (FMI) formalized a joint agreement with BAE Systems Hägglunds to procure 205 CV9035MkIIIC infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) from the Stridsfordon 90 series.

Under this contract, 115 vehicles will be delivered to Denmark, and 50 to Sweden, to replace vehicles previously donated to Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports citing the announcement by the Swedish government.

An additional 40 units will be produced for Ukraine, funded jointly by Sweden and Denmark. The deal, valued at 25 billion SEK ($2.25 billion), represents a significant investment in regional security and support for Ukraine.

Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson highlighted the strategic importance of the agreement, emphasizing Sweden's defence industry's role in bolstering both national and European security.

“Combat experience in Ukraine has proven the Stridsfordon 90’s exceptional effectiveness. With advanced protection and cutting-edge turret systems, the CV9035MkIIIC enhances situational awareness, mobility, and combat efficiency, safeguarding soldiers in high-risk scenarios,” the Swedish government stated.

The CV90 series is widely adopted, with 10 countries, including Denmark, Finland, and Ukraine, incorporating these vehicles into their armed forces.

On November 22, Jonson announced that Sweden would allocate 25 billion SEK ($2.25 billion) in 2025 and 2026 to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities. This announcement followed discussions with Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.

Jonson revealed that part of this funding would support the Ukrainian defence industry's mass production of long-range missiles and drones, with financing provided by Sweden while production remains in Ukraine. "These systems will be produced in Ukrainian defence facilities, but Sweden will handle the financing," Jonson clarified.

The Swedish government plans to detail the specifics of this new support package in January 2025.

Since February 2022, Sweden has committed a total of 57.4 billion SEK in assistance to Ukraine. Of this, 48.4 billion SEK ($4.99 billion) has been allocated specifically for military aid, underscoring Sweden's steadfast support amid the ongoing conflict.

By Tamilla Hasanova