The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence has secured the delivery of an upgraded Swedish personnel carrier to bolster its defence capabilities.
The PbV 302 is set to join the ranks of Ukraine’s armed forces. This comes amidst Ukraine’s recent incursion into Russia’s Kursk Oblast. Ukrainian forces have advanced up to 30km and taken control of areas, including several villages and the town of Sudzha.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence has officially approved the acquisition of the Swedish PbV 302 armoured personnel carrier, developed by the Swedish manufacturer Hägglund & Söner, to enhance its military arsenal.
The PbV 302, which served the Swedish army until 2014 and saw action in Bosnia and Kosovo, has off-road capabilities. With a weight in excess of 13 tons, the vehicle’s wide tracks distribute its weight, allowing it to traverse rugged terrains, including swamps and sandy environments. This capability is for Ukraine’s diverse and challenging battlefield conditions.
One of the PbV 302’s features is its armament. The vehicle is equipped with a 20-mm Hispano-Suiza automatic cannon, a weapon initially designed for aircraft but now repurposed for ground combat. This cannon enhances the PbV 302’s offensive capabilities, providing Ukrainian forces with increased firepower on the field.
The PbV 302 is fortified with armour systems in terms of protection. It features an internal anti-splinter lining and external ceramic elements. The frontal armour is designed to withstand impacts from 20 mm projectiles, enhancing the vehicle’s defensive attributes.
The PbV 302 is powered by a 270-horsepower diesel engine, enabling it to reach speeds exceeding 60km per hour. This ensures the vehicle can manoeuvre in various operational scenarios, from assaults to defensive positions.
As Ukraine continues to bolster its defence systems, the arrival of this Swedish armoured personnel carrier emphasises European countries’ continued efforts to enhance their combat readiness.
