Swedish Pbv 302 APC approved for use by Ukrainian Armed Forces: What is known

According to the Ministry, the tracked combat vehicle was developed by Hägglund & Söner. Ukraine received these APCs in the 16th package of military aid from Sweden. The APCs were previously in service with the Swedish army.

This armored personnel carrier is armed with a 20-mm Hispano-Suiza automatic cannon, which was also installed on aircraft.

The Pansarbandvagn 302 (Pbv 302) is a Swedish tracked armored personnel carrier developed in the 1960s by Hägglunds for the Swedish Army. Its main purpose was to replace outdated armored personnel carriers and provide mobility and protection for infantry in combat.

Key features:

• Crew: 3 (driver, commander, and gunner) plus 8 infantry.
• Armament: Equipped with a 20mm automatic cannon effective against lightly armored vehicles and enemy personnel.
• Protection: The Pbv 302 has armor protection against small arms fire and shrapnel. The vehicle is equipped with a system for protection against chemical, biological, and nuclear threats.
• Mobility: Thanks to its tracked base, the Pbv 302 offers good mobility on difficult terrain, including muddy and snowy conditions.
• Engine: A Volvo TD 50B diesel engine with approximately 270 horsepower provides a top speed of up to 65 km/h on roads.
• Troop compartment: The armored personnel carrier accommodates 8 infantry soldiers, who can be quickly dropped off through rear doors.

The Pbv 302 was used by the Swedish Army until the 1990s when it was replaced by more modern vehicles. Despite this, it remains an effective vehicle for transporting military units and conducting operations in difficult conditions.

Swedish support to Ukraine

Since the start of Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine, Sweden has consistently maintained a firm and supportive stance, providing comprehensive aid to Kyiv.

Stockholm previously announced a three-year military support package for Ukraine amounting to 75 billion Swedish kronor.