Ukraine Explores Gripen Jets Deal in Sweden for Enhanced Air Defense Following Russian Invasion, Zelenskiy’s Diplomatic Move

Ukraine Initiates Talks with Sweden for Gripen Jet Support

^{Credit: Google | Zelenskiy of Ukraine Requests Gripen Jets from Sweden During First Visit Since Russian Invasion.}

In a significant diplomatic move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy embarked on his maiden visit to Sweden since the Russian invasion of February 2022. During his discussions with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Zelenskiy expressed Ukraine’s interest in acquiring Gripen jets to enhance its air defense capabilities. The talks, while preliminary in nature, gained traction following the green light from the United States for Denmark and the Netherlands to provide F-16 fighters to Ukraine.

Addressing the media alongside Kristersson, Zelenskiy elaborated on the detailed deliberations regarding the prospect of acquiring Swedish Gripens, indicating its prominence in his interactions with other Swedish officials. Notably, Swedish authorities previously extended the offer for Ukrainian pilots to test the Saab-made Gripen fighter jets. However, Sweden’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity while supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts remains evident, necessitating careful consideration.

Ukraine's Zelenskiy asks Sweden for Gripen jets in first visit since Russian invasion https://t.co/X9LJVo0hFD (🔒)
— Nordic News (@Nordic_News) August 19, 2023

Ukraine’s President also shared that Ukrainian pilots have already commenced their training on the Gripen jets, demonstrating Ukraine’s proactive approach to bolstering its air forces. Despite the military discussions, Zelenskiy and Kristersson deplored a recent Russian missile attack on Chernihiv, Ukraine, which claimed seven lives and injured 90 individuals. The incident underscored the urgent need for international solidarity and support for Ukraine’s struggles against aggression.

Beyond military cooperation, Ukraine and Sweden solidified their ties with an agreement to kickstart the production of Sweden’s CV90 combat vehicle in Ukraine. Zelenskiy’s itinerary included meetings with Sweden’s parliamentary speaker, the supreme commander of the Swedish armed forces, and leaders of major political parties, all of which were outlined in a statement released by the Swedish government.

Speaking in Sweden, Zelensky said Ukrainian pilots have started introductory training on JAS-39 Gripen fighter jets.

He added that Ukraine is very interested in acquiring planes of that model.

Ukraine and Sweden also signed an MoU on production of Swedish CV-90 IFVs in Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/difhZZZqZn
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) August 19, 2023

Sweden’s steadfast support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia has been evident through the provision of weapons, including tanks, anti-aircraft systems, and armored Type 90 infantry fighting vehicles. Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson highlighted the upcoming plans for a new $313.5 million military assistance package to Ukraine, primarily comprising ammunition and spare parts for previously supplied weapon systems. This package will mark Sweden’s 13th contribution to Ukraine since the conflict’s inception, bringing the total value of aid from the Nordic nation to an impressive $1.8 billion.

As Ukraine continues to navigate the aftermath of Russia’s invasion, Zelenskiy’s diplomatic visit to Sweden and the discussions surrounding Gripen jets underscore the critical nature of international collaborations in ensuring regional security and stability.