Ukrainian Crews Trained by Sweden on Combat Boat 90

Swedish Navy instructors have actively been training Ukrainian crews in the use of the Swedish Combat Boat 90. The training is part of Sweden’s military support to Ukraine and aims to strengthen the operational capability of the Ukrainian Navy.

For many of the Swedish instructors, this is one of the most important contributions they have ever made. In less than a third of the usual training time, the Swedish instructors have taught the Ukrainian soldiers to operate the combat boat in all its aspects. When the training is completed, the Ukrainians return home to continue fighting for their country and their families.

“I haven’t seen my family in almost a year. I have a wife and two daughters back home in Odesa. Not a day goes by without me worrying that something will happen to them because of the Russians. I’m doing this for my family, my friends, and my fellow countrymen,” says one of the Ukrainian trainees.

From early mornings to late evenings and nights, training is conducted for the combat boat drivers, mechanics, and weapon station operators. The Ukrainian trainees participating in the Swedish training effort come from diverse backgrounds—some with years of maritime experience, others from farming communities who have never seen the sea before.

“They’re the best students I’ve ever had. They want to know absolutely everything about everything, 100 percent. It’s hard to believe that they’ll soon be leaving to stand at the very front lines. I’d be lying if I said that doesn’t affect you emotionally,” says one of the Swedish instructors.

The Swedish combat boat is a fast and highly maneuverable system that has been a central part of the Swedish Navy’s operations for several decades. The vessel is designed for a wide range of missions – from amphibious landings and coastal defense to patrols and protection of civilian shipping.

The donation of the combat boats is part of Sweden’s extensive military support to Ukraine, which currently totals around 90 billion SEK. But Sweden is not only donating equipment—it is also providing knowledge and training to ensure the systems can be used to their full potential. The Ukrainian crews are receiving a complete package that includes combat boats, weapon stations, command systems, spare parts, and training.

“Sweden isn’t just donating equipment—we’re donating capability. Our combat boats are making a difference in Ukraine, and our training efforts are something I’m immensely proud of. The Ukrainian crews we’ve trained have demonstrated discipline, understanding, and a strong will to learn as much as possible before returning home to defend their country,” says Rear Admiral Johan Norlén, Chief of the Swedish Navy.

The Ukrainian crews have been trained to fully utilize the combat boat system’s capabilities. The boats are equipped to meet the demands of modern naval warfare and have already been put into operational use in Ukraine.

In Ukraine, the Swedish combat boats are being used to defend against drone attacks, conduct rapid transport missions, and carry out reconnaissance operations at sea.