Sweden has announced its decision to provide Ukraine with advanced Tridon MK2 air defense systems as part of a broader military assistance package. This initiative aims to enhance Ukraine’s capabilities in countering aerial threats, including Iranian-made Shahed drones.
The Swedish government will allocate €400 million for the procurement of these systems, which constitutes nearly one-third of a new military aid package totaling €1.2 billion, unveiled in February.
The Tridon MK2 is a mobile, medium-range air defense system that was first introduced in 2024. It is designed to operate effectively under various weather conditions, both day and night. One of its key advantages is its relatively low cost per shot, making it an economically viable option for sustained operations.
This system can simultaneously engage multiple threats, including attack and reconnaissance drones, aircraft, helicopters, and cruise missiles.
The Tridon MK2 is equipped with a Bofors 40 Mk4 automatic cannon, capable of targeting objects up to 12 kilometers away and firing at rates of up to 300 rounds per minute. The system can also adjust its firing rate to 200 rounds per minute, allowing for ammunition conservation and adaptability to specific combat scenarios.
Additionally, the cannon utilizes programmable ammunition that detonates just before reaching its target, creating a cloud of debris that significantly enhances its effectiveness against aerial drones and cruise missiles.
The Tridon MK2 can be mounted on tracked armored vehicles such as the BvS 10 or on Scania trucks. Its electric drive systems facilitate easy integration with various platforms, distinguishing it from systems that rely on hydraulic drives.
Sweden is set to deliver Tridon MK2 air defense systems to Ukraine, bolstering its defense against aerial threats. The €400 million allocation forms part of a larger military aid package aimed at enhancing Ukraine's operational capabilities.