The war in Ukraine may not have been accurately predicted in Europe, but the direction of the winds has long been understood. Against the backdrop of this war, which is entering its 28th day, many countries on the old continent have announced further investment in their defense budgets. Among other things, Sweden recently announced an increase in its defense procurement budget. As part of this, it will purchase from Elbit precision ammunition for tanks worth $ 27 million. Elbit Systems announced today (Tuesday) that it has won a contract and will supply Hatzav ammunition for tanks as well as data entry units for ammunition for the Swedish Army’s leopard tanks.
Quarry ammunition for tanks is suitable for all NATO tanks, which have a 120 mm diameter barrel-smooth barrel. It is an accurate, multi-purpose ammunition that conforms to the standards of the armies of the United States and Europe.
Sweden’s choice of ammunition for tanks came after the Finnish army also announced in early 2020 the choice of this ammunition for the leopard tanks in use. “I believe that this choice of Sweden highlights the growing recognition of Western armies for the unique quality of our product portfolio,” agreed Yehuda (Udi) Vered, CEO of Elbit Land. Israel is well aware of how sensitive any such arms deal is, especially these days. Against the background of the war.
Estimates are that Sweden is not the last to increase its military procurement budget and the whole of Europe will follow suit. The Swedish defense budget in 2021 was about $ 6.7 billion and accounted for 1.2% of Swedish GDP. By 2021 Sweden has already announced that it is increasing the budget and strives to reach $ 9.3 billion within 3 years, which is 1.5% of Swedish GDP. This is a dramatic increase that may even increase in numbers in the face of the challenges ahead. Just recently, the Swedish Prime Minister announced that the Swedish government intends to increase the defense budget to 2% of GDP, against the background of increased threats from Russia as Sweden is very concerned about the Russian threat. As early as 2018, the Swedish government distributed 4.7 million The Swedish army, established in 1521, currently has 24,000 soldiers in regular service, and another 31,000 in reserve.