Ukraine’s Minister of Defense, Denys Shmyhal, held a phone call with Sweden’s Minister of Defense, Pål Jonson. The discussion focused on key areas of defense cooperation between the two countries. In particular, the sides addressed the current status and next steps in the process of transferring Gripen multirole fighter aircraft to Ukraine. Shmyhal noted that Ukraine is already in the active preparation phase for launching training programs for both pilots and technical personnel who will be responsible for maintaining the aircraft.
“We are preparing to begin training Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel,” Denys Shmyhal emphasized, also informing his Swedish counterpart about a large-scale Russian air attack carried out overnight on Tuesday. He noted that during the response to the strike, Ukraine’s air defense demonstrated high effectiveness, with F-16 fighters intercepting the majority of the 35 enemy cruise missiles launched at Ukrainian territory.
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Shmyhal also noted Sweden’s significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine’s air capabilities and expressed gratitude for the support. He added that Ukraine expects continued close cooperation in this area. In addition, the minister said that Sweden plans to announce a new assistance package for Ukraine in the near future, aimed at reinforcing air defense systems. This would represent another important step in joint efforts to counter aerial threats.
In closing, Denys Shmyhal thanked Sweden for its consistent and principled support of Ukraine, describing it as a genuine partnership and practical assistance that directly contributes to protecting civilians and saving lives amid the full-scale war.
It is worth recalling that Ukraine and Sweden recently signed a memorandum related to a long-term agreement for the supply of up to 150 Gripen multirole fighter aircraft over the coming years. According to Sweden’s Minister of Defense, Pål Jonson, Stockholm may finance part of the deal through a military aid package. If concluded, the contract would represent the largest aircraft export agreement in Sweden’s history.
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Source: mod
