Sweden to train Ukrainian pilots on its JAS 39 Gripen jets with new military aid package
The Swedish government announced a new package of military support to Ukraine. It will include, among other things, the training of Ukrainian pilots on JAS 39 Gripen combat aircraft.
Swedish press service makes the relevant statement.
The support includes contributions to funds in the total amount of 230 million kronor and allocations to the Swedish forces, in particular, for the JAS 39 Gripen and the decision on the supply of military rescources, the statement says.
The Swedish government also allocates 90 million Swedish kronor to the Trust Fund of the comprehensive package of NATO assistance to Ukraine for the purchase of:
- defense equipment,
- fuel,
- medical equipment,
- equipment for military training and support in strengthening and modernization of defense and security institutes of Ukraine.
In addition, Sweden allocated 140 million kroner to the International Fund of the UK for Ukraine, the funds of which are used for training and the purchase of defense equipment. The Fund plans to purchase long-range missiles for transfer to Ukraine.
- JAS 39 Gripen training
Swedish forces will conduct first-stage training for Ukrainian pilots and aviation technical personnel on the JAS 39 aircraft.
The Ukrainian armed forces have expressed a desire to be able to quickly manage the JAS 39, as one of the most urgent measures is to strengthen Ukrainian air defense with a modern fighter aircraft system, the press service noted.
- Supply of military aid
The Swedish government has decided that the country's forces will make decisions on the delivery of military equipment systems to Ukraine. As part of this decision, they can conduct operations with the participation of up to 60 people on the ground in Poland, Romania, and Slovakia.
The forces intend to establish a long-term supply mission of Robotsystem 70, Combat Vehicle 90, Tank 122, and Archer support equipment, which was previously transferred to Ukraine. The delivery is created thanks to the collaboration of Swedish forces, the Swedish Defense Technology Administration, and the Swedish industry.
The mission will last until December 31, 2025.
Фото: Getty Images
Earlier, Ukraine's defense minister Oleksii Reznikov stated that the forces needed F-16, Gripen, or Tornado fighters to launch and support a large-scale counteroffensive.
In May, Sweden announced the test-fly of several Ukrainian pilots on Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters. However, defense minister Paul Jonsson said that these planes would not be handed over to Ukraine.
Also, during the spring, the Swedish forces trained the Ukrainian military on the use of the CV90 infantry vehicles.
