The Swedish government has announced its 20th aid package to Ukraine, worth SEK 9.2 billion (approximately €840 million). It was formed based on Ukraine's needs.
It includes 18 newly manufactured Archer self-propelled artillery systems. This is a doubled order for these self-propelled howitzers for Ukraine, as a similar quantity was announced in March this year as part of Sweden's 18th aid package.
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In total, 36 Archer self-propelled howitzers will be manufactured for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. As for delivery dates, it was noted in March that the new artillery assets will begin arriving in Ukraine in 2026.
In addition to the self-propelled howitzers, Sweden is transferring artillery ammunition and unnamed long-range UAVs. For this purpose, SEK 3.6 billion (approximately €329 million) has been allocated. Another SEK 2.1 billion (€192 million) will go toward the purchase of coastal radar systems, landing craft, and diving equipment for Ukraine.
Air defense will be strengthened with SEK 3.5 billion (approximately €320 million) allocated for ammunition for the Tridon anti-aircraft system, radars, and air base equipment.
Sweden is increasing its overall expenditure on Ukraine's defense to SEK 40 billion (€3.66 billion), planned for 2026–2027.
It should be noted that the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been actively and effectively using Archer howitzers since 2023, after receiving eight units from Sweden’s reserves. The repeat order for additional systems clearly demonstrates that the Swedish self-propelled gun, with its high automation and a rate of 21 rounds in 150 seconds, has proven its combat effectiveness.
It should also be noted that in September 2023, Sweden ordered 48 Archer howitzers for its own armed forces under a contract worth approximately $500 million ($10.4 million per unit). At the same time, the Swedish Ministry of Defense is strengthening its artillery units, as it only had 24 Archers in service at that time.
The new artillery systems for Sweden were ordered on the German MAN RMMV HX2 8x8 chassis, rather than the Volvo A30D. Therefore, it is likely that the new Ukrainian Archers will also be based on the same chassis.
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