Ukraine will receive Tridon Mk2 air defense systems from Sweden to help counter Russian drone attacks, including Shahed-type unmanned aerial vehicles, the Defense Ministry said on Monday, April 6.
Sweden will allocate €400 million ($462 million) for the systems as part of a broader €1.2 billion ($1.4 billion) military aid package announced in February, the ministry said.
The Tridon Mk2 is a mobile medium-range air defense system designed to intercept drones, aircraft, and cruise missiles in various conditions.
System capabilities, combat role
According to the ministry, the system is equipped with a 40mm Bofors 40 Mk4 automatic cannon capable of engaging targets at distances of up to 12 kilometers (7.5 miles).
It can fire up to 300 rounds per minute, with the option to reduce the rate to 200 rounds to conserve ammunition, depending on operational needs.
The system uses programmable proximity warheads with airburst munitions that detonate near targets and can be optimized for target size, increasing effectiveness against drones and other smaller-than-fighter-sized aerial threats.
Mobility, deployment flexibility
The Tridon Mk2 can be mounted on tracked armored vehicles such as the BvS 10, or on wheeled Scania trucks, allowing flexible deployment across various terrains.
Unlike systems that rely on hydraulic drives, it uses electric drives, making integration with various platforms easier, the ministry said.
Role in Ukraine’s air defense
The system is designed to operate in all weather conditions and at any time of day or night, providing additional coverage for Ukraine’s air defense network.
Ukraine has been seeking cost-effective solutions to counter large numbers of drones, as cheaper intercept methods are critical for sustaining long-term defense against frequent aerial attacks.