Kyiv May Receive Early Warning Aircraft, Gripen Jets as Part Sweden-Ukraine Security Agreement

Ukraine and Sweden signed a pivotal security agreement during President Volodymyr Zelenskyi's official visit to Stockholm, paving the way for potential delivery of Gripen fighter jets and ASC 890 surveillance aircraft.

The agreement, confirmed by the official page of the office of the President of Ukraine, underscores Sweden's commitment to provide military and financial aid to Ukraine over the coming years.

Under the terms of the agreement, spanning from 2024 to 2026, Sweden has pledged to extend military assistance totaling approximately €6.5 billion, with an annual allocation of about €2.2 billion. Notably, this aid package is expected to increase throughout the ten-year duration of the agreement.

The aid encompasses various aspects of military support, including aviation and air defense, armored vehicles, artillery, maritime security enhancement, mine clearance assistance, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Sweden's ongoing support to Ukraine has already seen the provision of Archer artillery systems and CV90 combat vehicles. Both countries are exploring opportunities for joint production of these military assets.

A notable aspect of the newly formed agreement is the provision of specialized ASC 890 long-range radar detection and control aircraft, offering Ukraine capabilities in surveillance and early warning systems. This will mark the first possession of such capabilities by Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson said the aircraft will enable Ukraine “to identify incoming cruise missiles and drones and identify targets both on the ground and at sea." The ASC 890 can detect threats hundreds of kilometers away and relay this information via data link to the F-16 fighter jets, which Ukraine is set to receive from its allies.

Moreover, the agreement holds the promise of potential Gripen fighter jets being transferred to Ukraine, accompanied by comprehensive training programs for Ukrainian pilots.

“A unique part of the agreement with Sweden is the provision of specialized ASC 890 aircraft, as well as the prospect of transferring JAS 39 Gripen aircraft to Ukraine, including relevant training,” the official statement said.