Lviv, Kiev and Poltava, cities recently attacked by Russia and costing several Ukrainian lives. Ukraine has long stated the urgent need for a better air defense and that it needs the support now, and not just promises.
After the bloody attack on Poltava, Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, once again appealed for more support.
– We continue to call on everyone in the world who has the power to stop this terror: Ukraine needs air defense systems and robots now, Zelenskyy said after the attack.
Zelenskyy thanks for the support
In February was presented the 15th military aid package to Ukraine. It contained, among other things, the Swedish anti-aircraft system Robot 70.
When a new support package was presented today, Robot 70 was on the list of material being given away again. At the press conference, it was stated that the system must have been very much appreciated by the Ukrainians. The system must also already be available in Swedish warehouses.
– Robot 70 is highlighted as something that works very well. Therefore, we are very happy to be able to get rid of this, said Mikael Oscarsson (KD).
The response from Ukraine came shortly afterwards. President Zelenskyj thanked the prime minister and the government and also took the opportunity to highlight, among other things, the air defense system.
“This important support, with anti-aircraft systems, anti-tank weapons and financial contributions to meet Ukraine’s urgent needs, will strengthen our defense capabilities,” Zelenskyy wrote on social media.
Paasikivi: Works well in Ukraine
According to Joakim Paasikivi, ex-military and security adviser, Ukraine is in need of all types of air defense, including systems such as the Robot 70.
– They are good against goals that do not move very fast and not very high. You can shoot down attack planes like the Su-25, but they are particularly suitable against helicopters, cruise robots and Shahed drones, says Paasikivi.
The system is described by the Swedish Armed Forces as a “light and fast grouped robot system” and can be used against several different targets.
– It is relatively easy to move and is user-friendly. According to Ukrainian media reports, it works very well, says Paasikivi.
The mobility of the system allows it to be used in several locations in Ukraine – which needs to protect its entire airspace. At the same time, it can also be used in assault brigades and can also be used in the Russian Kursk region where it can protect against many threats, according to Paasikivi.
– But this type is also needed to protect more qualified weapons, which need protection against cruise robots and ballistic robots.