Swedish Defense Ministry comments on surveillance aircraft transfer to Ukraine
Photo: Saab 340 ASC 890 aircraft to be delivered by Sweden to Ukraine (flickr.com)
The delivery of the ASC 890 long-range radar detection aircraft (Saab 340) is on track. The delivery date is related to the preparation of certain modifications of the F-16, according to the Swedish Ministry of Defense.
“The timing of the ASC 890 delivery is linked to when certain modifications of the F-16 fighters are ready. There are no delays in the transfer of the aircraft to Ukraine,” the commentary reads.
The Swedish Defense Ministry clarified that in this regard, they are working following the original schedule.
“However, for security reasons, we will not disclose when and where certain actions have taken place or will take place,” the Ministry added.
ASC890 aircraft
The Saab 340 AEW&C (S 100B Argus) is a Swedish long-range radar detection and control aircraft created by installing the Erieye radar on the Saab 340 turboprop transport aircraft.
In the Saab 340 AEW&C, the Erieye radar is fixed and located longitudinally, a design that reduces air resistance but has blind spots in front and behind the aircraft.
The scanning area is 120 degrees on each side of the aircraft. The radar can track ships, aircraft, and missiles at distances of up to 300-400 km when flying at an altitude of 6000 meters.
Technical characteristics
- Crew: 6 individuals
- Length: 20.57 m
- Wingspan: 21,44 м
- Height: 6,97 м
- Empty weight: 10,300 kg
- Maximum takeoff weight: 13,155 kg
- Powerplant: 2 × General Electric CT7-9B, 1,390 kW (1,870 hp) each
Flight characteristics
- Cruising speed: 300 km/h
- Flight duration: over 5 hours
- Practical ceiling: 7,620 м
Delivery of ASC 890 aircraft to Ukraine from Sweden
In May 2024, it was reported that Ukraine would receive the ASC 890 long-range radar detection aircraft for the first time. It was then that the Swedish government announced the upcoming transfer of the ASC 890, also known as the Saab 340 AEW&C or S-100B Argus.
In May of the same year, experts warned that Ukraine would probably not receive Swedish ASC 890 long-range radar detection aircraft soon. At the same time, they insisted that these aircraft would significantly expand the capabilities of Ukrainian air defense.
Last fall, RBC-Ukraine wrote that the delay in the transfer of the ASC 890 aircraft was not related to Sweden.
