Gripen fighters and more: Ukraine and Sweden discuss potential assistance

Today, a meeting took place between the Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Rustem Umerov, Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine Lieutenant General Ivan Havryliuk, and the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of Sweden, General Miсael Bydén.

Among the topics discussed was the potential supply of Gripen aircraft to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

"There is productive bilateral work ongoing regarding the transfer of Gripen aircraft to us," said Ivan Havryliuk.

The Deputy Minister added that there are currently "certain issues related to NATO," but expressed hope that "with joint efforts, we will be able to obtain these aircraft."

Bydén, who headed the Swedish delegation, noted that the issue of transferring Gripen aircraft to Ukraine is being discussed at both the political and military operational levels.

"I know that dialogue between our countries is ongoing. So, we are awaiting political decisions," said the general.

Gripen fighters

Saab JAS 39 Gripen is a multi-role fourth-generation fighter aircraft designed for versatility. Officially classified as a fighter, it was conceived as a multi-role aircraft capable of performing various tasks.

At the end of May, the Swedish government allowed Ukrainian pilots to undergo training on the JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft. They will have the opportunity to train on simulators and conduct test flights.

The Office of the President reported that the transfer of Swedish Gripen to Ukraine would need to be coordinated with other countries, similar to the F-16 deliveries.

Later, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that the country needs aircraft for its defense, as its application to join the Alliance has not yet been finalized. However, he did not rule out the possibility of transferring fighters to Ukraine in the future.

In September, it was reported that the Swedish government would soon instruct the Armed Forces to explore the possibility of transferring Gripen fighters to Ukraine.