Sweden boosts Ukraine air defence with advanced AWACS delivery
Sweden plans to deliver Saab 340 AEW&C (ASC 890) airborne warning and control aircraft to Ukraine, reports the Militarnyi service. This process depends on modifications to F-16 fighters that are meant to operate with the new machines. However, the Swedish Ministry of Defence assures that the delivery schedule is being implemented as planned.
The ASC 890 aircraft will introduce new capabilities in airborne radar reconnaissance and combat management with fighters. They will be particularly useful in repelling significant missile and drone attacks. Thanks to these aircraft, Ukraine will gain better situational awareness in its airspace.
AWACS for Ukraine
The Swedish Ministry of Defence emphasises that for security reasons, it does not disclose specific details regarding the timing and locations of activities related to the delivery of the aircraft. Sweden is also supporting Ukraine in training pilots and personnel to operate the new machines.
The Militarnyi service notes that introducing ASC 890 aircraft into Ukrainian territory presents additional challenges. These machines will become priority targets for Russian forces, which, during the war, lost several of their own A-50 long-range reconnaissance aircraft. Therefore, protecting these aircraft will be a key task for Ukrainian services.
Available information indicates that two 340 AEW&C (ASC 890) aircraft will be handed over to the Ukrainian army. These are aircraft built on the platform of the passenger Saab 340. Their strength lies in the modern Erieye radar system, mounted on a distinctive beam above the fuselage. The primary task of Saab 340 AEW&C is to detect and track air and sea targets over long distances. Thanks to the Erieye radar, the aircraft can monitor airspace within a radius of even 450 kilometres, operating in a 360-degree mode.
The radar operates in the S band and is capable of tracking up to 300 targets simultaneously, both at high and low altitudes, regardless of weather conditions. This capability allows for the early detection of potential threats, such as enemy fighters, drones, or cruise missiles, while effectively managing own air force actions.
In the cockpit of the Saab 340 AEW&C, there are positions for several onboard systems operators responsible for analysing radar data, identifying targets, and transmitting information to command stations. Communication systems enable cooperation with other NATO units due to compatibility with Link 16, making these machines valuable tools within allied operations.
The Saab 340 AEW&C is equipped with two General Electric CT7-9B turboprop engines, allowing it to reach a cruising speed of about 450 kilometres per hour. The maximum operational ceiling of this machine is approximately 7,500 metres. The aircraft's range is up to 1,750 kilometres, which, combined with the ability to stay airborne for up to 9 hours, provides significant operational flexibility in patrolling selected areas.
