Sweden and Ukraine Near Deal on Up to 150 Gripen Jets

Ukraine is close to reaching an agreement with Sweden on the purchase of Gripen fighter jets from Saab, according to Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. The contract could be signed within months.

The two countries signed a memorandum last year foreseeing the possible delivery of up to 150 aircraft. The Gripen is considered a key element of Ukraine's future air force after the war with Russia.

Although the first new aircraft could arrive in three years at the earliest, Sweden is also negotiating faster delivery of older versions through lease, sale or donation. Funding could come from Swedish aid to Ukraine, with other countries potentially also contributing.

(reuters, mja)