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Ukraine Confirms First Combat Missions of Swedish ASC 890 Early-Warning Aircraft
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Ukraine has begun operational combat use of the Swedish-supplied ASC 890 airborne early warning and control aircraft, adding a long-range surveillance capability designed to detect aerial threats and coordinate fighter operations.
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According to Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense on September 4, the transfer of the ASC 890 was announced in May 2024 and confirmed in August 2025, with the aircraft’s first combat missions over Ukraine recorded in March 2026.
The ASC 890, also known as the Saab 340 AEW&C, is designed to provide long-range detection and tracking of aircraft, missiles, and other aerial targets while supporting the coordination of combat aviation.
“In combination with the F-16, Mirage 2000 and Gripen, it forms the basis of a modern network-centric air combat system according to NATO standards,” Ukraine’s Defense Ministry said.
Sweden announced the transfer of ASC 890 aircraft to Ukraine in May 2024 as part of what was then its largest military aid package for Kyiv. The aircraft were intended to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to identify targets at extended ranges and improve coordination between its air assets.
The ASC 890 is equipped with the Erieye airborne radar system, which provides significantly greater detection ranges against low-flying targets than ground-based radar stations because of the aircraft’s elevated operating position.
Ukraine’s F-16 fighters have also undergone modifications enabling them to interact with the Swedish airborne early-warning aircraft, allowing information gathered by the ASC 890 to be integrated with Ukraine’s fighter operations.
Earlier, Ukraine and Sweden signed a declaration of intent covering the potential acquisition of 100–150 JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighter jets, with localized production in Ukraine considered as part of the long-term procurement plan.
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