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Sweden Confirms On-Schedule Delivery of ASC 890 Long-Range Radar Detection Aircraft to Ukraine

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Ivan Khomenko
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A Swedish Air Force Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft equipped with the Erieye radar system. (Source: Pål Jonson / X)
A Swedish Air Force Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft equipped with the Erieye radar system. (Source: Pål Jonson / X)

Sweden’s Ministry of Defense has confirmed that the delivery of the ASC 890 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft to Ukraine is proceeding according to schedule.

According to Delfi on March 21, the timeline for supplying the Saab 340-based aircraft is aligned with preparations for specific modifications to F-16 fighter jets. Swedish officials noted there are no delays in the transfer.

“The delivery schedule for the ASC 890 is linked to the readiness of certain modifications of the F-16s. There is no delay in the transfer of the AEW&C aircraft to Ukraine,” the Ministry of Defense said.

Swedish authorities added that all actions are being conducted according to the initial plan. For security reasons, details regarding the time and location of the transfer will not be disclosed.

ASC 890

The ASC 890, also known as the Saab 340 AEW&C or S 100B Argus, is an airborne early warning and control aircraft developed by integrating the Erieye radar system onto the Saab 340 turboprop platform.

The Erieye radar is mounted longitudinally in a fixed position, reducing air resistance but creating blind spots directly in front of and behind the aircraft. The radar’s scanning coverage extends 120 degrees on each side and can detect aircraft, missiles, and ships at distances of 300 to 400 kilometers while flying at an altitude of 6,000 meters.

Key specifications

  • Crew: 6

  • Length: 20.57 m

  • Wingspan: 21.44 m

  • Height: 6.97 m

  • Empty weight: 10,300 kg

  • Maximum takeoff weight: 13,155 kg

  • Engines: 2 × General Electric CT7-9B (1,390 kW / 1,870 hp each)

Performance

  • Cruising speed: 300 km/h

  • Endurance: Over 5 hours

  • Service ceiling: 7,620 m

The aircraft will enhance Ukraine’s situational awareness and air defense coordination capabilities once integrated into service.

Earlier, Sweden announced military aid package for Ukraine, worth $1.3 billion, which includes the transfer of an ASC 890 airborne early warning and control aircraft. The radar-equipped aircraft will provide Ukraine with new capabilities for airborne reconnaissance and combat management against air and sea targets. The package also includes training, technical equipment, and additional military support to enhance Ukraine’s defense.

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