Ukraine to receive ex-Dutch sniper rifles
Barrett M82A1 sniper rifle. (Photo: Netherlands MoD)
The Netherlands is the latest NATO member state to decide to donate military aid to Ukraine in view of the escalating Russian threat, with sniper rifles among the materiel to be shipped to Kiev.
Following a request from the Ukrainian government, the Dutch MoD revealed on 18 February that combat helmets, body armour sets, metal detectors and wire-guided USVs for naval mine countermeasures would be provided, plus two ground surveillance radars, five weapon location radars, 100 sniper rifles and 30,000 rounds of ammunition.
The Royal Netherlands Army arsenal of sniper rifles includes the AWM and AX from UK firm Accuracy International and the US-made Barrett M82A1.
The Dutch MoD did not specify which type is being donated to Ukraine, although Shephard has reported that Ukrainian Army, National Guard, SOF and airborne troops are known to operate the M82A1.
More from Land Warfare
-
Thai navy unveils Chinese-built FK-3 SAM system
Thailand's military inducts another sophisticated piece of Chinese weaponry, this time FK-3 air defence systems.
-
Sweden expands Mjölner mortar vehicle fleet with top-up order
Sweden is boosting its indirect fire capability by adding a further batch of 120mm mortar systems, taking its total fleet to 80 once all are delivered.
-
Italy reveals future armoured vehicle upgrade plans
Speaking at the International Armoured Vehicles 2023 conference near London, Maj Gen Francesco Olla, Head of III Department (Military Policy and Planning) of the Italian …
-
How Ukraine Leopard tank breakthrough opens new offensive options for Kyiv
With donations of Leopard 2, Challenger 2 and M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine all now confirmed, Shephard Defence Insight analyses the implications for the conflict and the NATO nations supplying Kyiv with MBTs.
-
US Abrams tanks will take 'months' to arrive in Ukraine
As the Pentagon does not have any surplus Abrams tanks in its inventory, it is analysing the best ways to supply Kyiv.