Negotiations between Sweden and Ukraine for up to 150 Gripen fighters are progressing, with a possible deal in the coming months.
New data is emerging on the Europe military balance sheet as Sweden and Ukraine accelerate contacts for one of the biggest defence deals in recent years, focused on the ultra-modern Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters. Statements by Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson confirm that the negotiations are at an advanced stage, and there is optimism in Kiev that the long-awaited deal could be completed soon. The Gripen is considered crucial for the future strengthening of the Ukrainian air force, as it combines high operational capabilities, lower maintenance costs and flexibility in war conditions, elements that can change the balance in the region.
Talks between Sweden and Ukraine to reach an agreement on the Gripen fighter jets, built by Saab, are going well, Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson said.
Negotiations are ongoing
The two countries signed a letter of intent last year that could result in the supply of up to 150 Swedish Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine. “Negotiations are ongoing and progressing well,” Jonson said during a joint news conference with his Ukrainian counterpart Mikhail Fiodorov in Stockholm.
Jonson told Reuters he did not rule out the possibility of reaching an agreement this year.
The aircraft are considered a priority for Ukraine’s post-war air force fleet, but there is still a question over how to finance the purchase.
Fiodorov said Ukraine has a plan on how to finance the deal and that his country would be ready to announce the deal soon “possibly in a few months.”
The chief executive of Saab’s defence industry group had told Swedish media in May that he hoped the deal would be signed this year after Hungary lifted a veto on a 90 billion euro loan to Ukraine from the European Union.
