Sweden's plan to send Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine has been put on hold, according to a report from Swedish news agency TT. This decision comes amidst a growing international effort to equip Ukraine with U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets.
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Discussions between Sweden and Ukraine regarding Gripen jets began in 2023. The Swedish-produced aircraft, manufactured by Saab, were initially considered a potential option to bolster Ukraine's air defenses against the ongoing Russian invasion. However, a recent meeting in Brussels involving Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson resulted in a shift in strategy.
Minister Jonson reportedly stated that other countries involved in supporting Ukraine have urged Sweden to pause the Gripen plan. This move seems to be driven by a collective focus on introducing the F-16 system, a fighter jet familiar to many NATO air forces. The F-16's wider use could potentially streamline maintenance, training, and overall operational efficiency for the Ukrainian military.
The decision to prioritize F-16s doesn't necessarily mean Sweden is abandoning military aid to Ukraine. The situation remains fluid, and Sweden might explore alternative ways to contribute to Ukraine's defense efforts. However, for the time being, the focus has shifted towards the potential deployment of F-16 jets from a coalition of nations.