600 Swedish soldiers have been sent to Latvia to protect NATO’s eastern border. There they will practice being the first line of defense if Russia wants to penetrate further into Europe.
But Sweden has already played a major role in the war against Vladimir Putin’s progress – not least through the Swedish weapons systems used on the front.
– It is simply that there are weapons of good quality, although there has been a development, they are very good – and in some cases both weapons and ammunition have been modernized, says Roger Djupsjö.
“Played an important role”
With support packages 17, presented by the government in September 2024, the total value of Sweden’s military support for Ukraine amounts to approximately SEK 48.4 billion.
Several of the systems used are also found at the Army Museum.
– Swedish weapons are robust and reliable, not only in tests but also in a sharp position. And we have a harder time to see in Sweden when we have had peace for over 200 years – it is noticeable in international conflicts, says Andreas Ohlsson, weapons curator army museum.
Kulputen 58, armor shot 86, Kpist m/45 and grenade rifle 48 are some of the Swedish weapons systems that are used successfully by Ukrainian forces. Some directly donated by the Swedish state and some that have come from Sweden via the Baltics.
– Ukraine is satisfied with many Swedish weapons systems, they have played an important role. Many of the weapons systems sent to Ukraine from all possible countries have proven to be too technically advanced with parts that are sensitive to dirt, moisture and cold, says Roger Djupsjö.
Several success factors
Neutrality during World War II and a thought that everyone should be able to use the weapons quickly are some of the factors behind the popularity.
– During World War II, we would officially not belong to any alliances, then they have to be self -sufficient. 15-20 percent of the defense budget was placed on research and development. So internationally, Sweden is known for making reliable and robust weapons for which there is an international market, says Andreas Ohlsson.
– A success factor has been that we produce weapons from our perspective. Our signature has been weapons that can be handled by soldiers with short training even when you are tired and scared.
See the historical Swedish weapons systems in the video above.