Overview of Pbv 302 Armored Vehicles as Sweden Transfers Entire Fleet to Ukraine.

Sweden has confirmed the transfer of 239 vehicles, as its entire fleet of Pansarbandvagn 302 Pbv 302 armored vehicles to Ukraine as part of its 16th defense aid package. Developed in the 1960s by Hägglund & Söner, the Pbv 302 was introduced into the Swedish armed forces in 1966 and served as the primary armored personnel carrier until it retired from active service in 2014.
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Equipped with a single-seat turret armed with a 20 mm HS804 automatic cannon positioned at the front left of the chassis, the Pbv 302 provides effective defense capabilities (Picture source: Swedish MoD)

The vehicle features a distinctive design with its engine and transmission positioned under the floor, allowing for an optimized interior layout for troop transport. The cockpit is centrally located at the front, flanked by positions for the vehicle commander and the gunner. The rear section is specifically designed to transport up to eight infantrymen.

Equipped with a single-seat turret armed with a 20 mm HS804 automatic cannon positioned at the front left of the chassis, the Pbv 302 provides effective defense capabilities. The vehicle is powered by a 280-horsepower Volvo-Penta Model THD 100B engine, sharing mechanical components with the Ikv 91 light tank. This setup enables a maximum speed of 66 km/h and an amphibious speed of 7.5 km/h.

A total of 647 units of the Pbv 302 were produced between 1965 and 1972, comprising 518 infantry combat versions and 129 specialized versions including command posts, artillery fire observation, medical evacuation, and recovery. The vehicle underwent several upgrades over the years, resulting in the Pbv 302A, Pbv 302B with enhanced protection, and Pbv 302C with improved engine and suspension.

In addition to the vehicles, Sweden will provide spare parts, maintenance equipment, and ammunition to support the new brigades Ukraine is currently forming. This support initiative is further complemented by the provision of tanker trucks and other resources necessary for maintaining previously supplied equipment, reflecting Sweden's ongoing commitment to supporting regional stability and Ukrainian defense efforts, while planning to acquire new armored vehicles to temporarily compensate for the diminished capabilities of its own armed forces.