Breaking News: Swedish-Donated PBV 302 Armored Personnel Carriers Enter Service with Ukrainian Forces.

According to a video released by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense on October 31, 2024, Swedish-donated PBV 302 tracked Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) have officially entered service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces, with Ukrainian soldiers already training on these vehicles. This deployment follows a September 2024 announcement by the Swedish Ministry of Defense, confirming the transfer of 200 PBV 302 armored tracked personnel carriers to Ukraine as part of Sweden's extensive military aid package.
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Ukrainian soldiers conduct training exercises with the Swedish-donated PBV 302 Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), recently deployed by the Ukrainian Army in its fight against Russian forces. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)

The PBV 302, a Swedish-designed tracked APC known for its mobility across difficult terrain, enhances Ukraine's infantry transport capabilities. Armed with a 20mm Hispano-Suiza Type 804 cannon and accommodating a crew of three with space for eight infantry soldiers, the PBV 302 blends protection with combat support, essential for safely delivering troops to active zones. The recent training for Ukrainian soldiers focuses on operational and maintenance skills to ensure seamless integration into active duty. This comes as Sweden’s support efforts continue to evolve in response to Ukraine’s changing battlefield needs, reinforcing its defense with critical equipment and resources.

In addition to the PBV 302, Sweden has supplied a wide range of military equipment that has proven valuable in Ukrainian operations. In September 2024, Sweden delivered 50 Combat Vehicle 90 (CV90) units, a sophisticated tracked infantry fighting vehicle equipped with advanced armor and a 40mm autocannon, ideal for both transport and frontline engagements. The CV90s have proven highly effective for Ukraine’s forces, and to maintain their combat readiness, Sweden has committed to procuring additional 40mm ammunition specifically for these vehicles.

Sweden’s latest aid packages have further expanded Ukraine’s armored capabilities. Support Package 16 included over 200 PBV 302s, significantly strengthening the volume of armored personnel carriers available to Ukrainian forces. Meanwhile, in an effort to enhance operational security, Sweden's upcoming Support Package 17 will include specialized camouflage equipment tailored for both PBV 302 and CV90 vehicles. This camouflage technology is intended to provide Ukrainian units with better concealment in diverse operational environments, boosting their capacity to execute covert maneuvers and improve battlefield survivability.

Since February 2022, Sweden’s total military aid to Ukraine has reached close to €2 billion, covering a comprehensive range of needs. In addition to the PBV 302 and CV90s, Sweden’s contributions include Stridsvagn 122 main battle tanks, RBS 70 air defense systems, Archer 155mm self-propelled howitzers, and Robot 17 anti-ship missiles. By addressing Ukraine’s operational requirements through various aid packages, Sweden has consistently bolstered Ukraine’s defenses, enhancing its mobility, firepower, and strategic advantage.

The provision of these armored vehicles, combined with camouflage equipment and sustained ammunition support, highlights Sweden’s commitment to maintaining Ukraine’s defensive resilience amid ongoing hostilities. Sweden’s defense support not only strengthens Ukraine’s military capacity but also reflects a broader partnership, aligning with NATO-aligned nations in upholding Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.