Forced to pause plans for Gripen to Ukraine

 

 

Russia's invasion of Ukraine
No Gripen to Ukraine - Sweden is asked to pause

TT

Updated 12.26 | Published 11.52

Jas Gripen plane during a ceremony. Photo: Claudio Bresciani/TT

Sweden is being asked to pause plans to send the Jas Gripen to Ukraine, Defense Minister Pål Jonson (M) tells TT.

- It has to do with the fact that the focus is now on introducing the F-16 system, he tells TT.

The announcement comes in Brussels after Jonson had "intensive talks" with other countries in the air defense coalition that helps Ukraine with both aircraft and air defense systems.

- We have been urged by the other countries that run the coalition to wait for the Gripen system. It has to do with the fact that the focus is now on introducing the F-16 system, Jonson explains.
 

"Focus on F-16"

Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark and Norway have all pledged F-16 planes to Ukraine. The first planes are expected to be delivered already this year, which means that the Gripen will have to wait for the time being.

- We by no means rule out that it may become relevant in the future, but right now the focus on the Ukrainian side is on implementing the F-16 program, says the Minister of Defense.

The opposition in Sweden has demanded that Sweden deliver the Gripen to Ukraine in principle immediately - but that is now out of the question.

- It is not in line with how the coalition views the introduction of two fighter aircraft systems at the same time, notes Jonson.

Pål Jonsson (M) on his way to the EU meeting in Brussels. Photo: Wiktor Nummelin/TT