Ukraine plans to start production of Swedish Gripen fighters in 2033. This statement was made by Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal at a briefing on November 7, noting progress in agreements between Ukraine and Sweden.
A memorandum on the localization of production of Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters was signed between a Ukrainian company and Swedish Saab. According to it, from 2033, significant localization of the production of these aircraft is planned in Ukraine, including large-scale assembly and the manufacture of individual parts. These steps became possible after President Volodymyr Zelensky and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson reached relevant agreements on November 6.
In addition, negotiations are ongoing about the transfer of Gripen class C/D fighters to Ukraine by 2026. Ukraine and Sweden have already created two working groups: technical and financial, which will be involved in preparation for receiving and using the aircraft, as well as developing contract issues.
Financial capabilities largely depend on the use of frozen Russian assets. Saab AB, in particular, is considering the possibility of creating an enterprise in Ukraine for assembling fighters, as confirmed by company director Mikael Johansson in an interview with the Financial Times.
Strategic partnership with Sweden significantly enhances Ukraine’s defense capability amidst Russia’s prolonged aggression. The production and integration of Gripen can provide more effective airspace control and strengthen the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
| Goal | Details |
|---|---|
| Production | Localization from 2033 |
| Memorandum | Signed with Saab |
| Fighters C/D | Planned by 2026 |
| Working groups | Technical and financial |
| Financing | Possible with frozen Russian assets |
