Sweden has unveiled its 20th military support package for Ukraine, worth approximately SEK 9.2 billion ($836 million), in what officials describe as one of the most significant aid deliveries to date. Announced by Defence Minister Pål Jonson on September 11, the package responds to direct operational requests from Kyiv and focuses on strengthening Ukraine’s artillery and long-range strike capability.
At the heart of the aid is the delivery of 18 newly built Archer 155 mm self-propelled howitzers, together with 155 mm ammunition. This latest tranche will bring Ukraine’s total Archer fleet to 44 units, making it one of the largest modern wheeled artillery forces in Europe. The new Archers will be based on the Rheinmetall MAN HX2 8×8 chassis, replacing the earlier Volvo A30D platform, with deliveries scheduled to start in 2026.
Key Package Components
- Artillery & Firepower (SEK 3.6B / $327M for ammunition): 18 Archers, 155 mm shells, drones
- Naval Security (SEK 2.1B / $190M): Coastal radars, support vessels with grenade launchers, diving gear, crane vehicles, upgrades to 32 CB90 combat boats
- Air & Space Defense (SEK 3.5B / $320M): New radar sensors, command-and-control systems, 40 mm programmable ammunition
- Additional Support: 500 motorcycles, trucks, tractors, financial contributions to coalition efforts, and classified systems for direct battlefield use
Stockholm emphasized that this package is part of a long-term commitment, pledging to allocate SEK 40 billion annually for military aid to Ukraine in 2026–2027 and at least SEK 10 billion annually in civil assistance, rising to SEK 10.5 billion by 2028.
Archer System Highlights
The Archer system is an advanced fully automated 155 mm L52 howitzer capable of rapid “shoot-and-scoot” operations, minimizing exposure to counter-battery fire. It can fire three rounds in 20 seconds, 21 rounds in about three minutes, and sustain 54 rounds over 35 minutes. Archer supports the full spectrum of NATO 155 mm ammunition, including precision-guided M982 Excalibur rounds with ranges beyond 50 km and BONUS top-attack munitions.
Ukrainian crews operating Archers have praised the system’s survivability, precision, and ability to rapidly relocate under fire. Documented engagements include successful strikes against Russian artillery near Kreminna and Chervonopopivka, confirming its effectiveness on the battlefield.
By fielding 44 Archers, Ukraine is creating one of Europe’s most potent long-range, precision-guided artillery fleets, integrated with drones and NATO-standard ammunition—significantly boosting its counter-battery and deep-strike capabilities.
