Sweden is contemplating sending military advisors to Ukraine as early as the fall of 2024 to enhance its support for its defence efforts. This potential deployment would involve Swedish personnel assisting with defence procurement, maintaining donated equipment, and evaluating its performance on the battlefield. The move aligns with similar actions recently announced by the United States and France, which are also engaged in training and real-time field assessment. France, for example, has unveiled plans to train and equip Ukrainian brigades.
Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson confirmed on August 15 that the government has directed the Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) to explore the logistics of establishing a presence in Ukraine starting in the fall of 2024. This initiative could see several Swedish officials stationed in Ukraine to provide on-site support for defence procurement and maintenance of military aid.
While Ukraine has received substantial military support from its allies, including equipment and training, most, including the United States and Germany, have been cautious about deploying troops due to concerns over escalating the conflict and provoking a confrontation with Russia.
According to local media reports, the Swedish government’s plan to bolster FMV’s role reflects its commitment to intensifying support for Ukraine. Swedish officials, likely based at the Swedish Embassy in Kyiv, would focus on the maintenance, spare parts, and logistics for military aid already provided by Sweden.
Sweden has contributed approximately $4.166 billion in military aid to Ukraine through 16 aid programs. This support includes the Combat Vehicle 90 (Stridsfordon 90), Leopard 2 tanks (Stridsvagn 122), Archer artillery systems, and various anti-tank missiles and advanced munitions. The forthcoming FMV mission would involve analyzing the performance of this equipment in combat scenarios. Sweden’s most extensive aid package, announced for 2024, amounts to 13.3 billion Swedish kronor (about 1.16 billion euros) and features advanced military equipment, armoured vehicles, and artillery systems.
