Sweden Unveils 17th Military Aid Package for Ukraine
On August 9, the Swedish Ministry of Defense announced its 17th military aid package for Ukraine, valued at approximately 4.6 billion Swedish kronor, or $445 million. This latest package marks a shift in focus, emphasizing new military equipment to bolster Ukraine’s defenses.
New Equipment for Ukraine
The comprehensive aid package includes a range of critical military supplies:
- RB 70 Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS)
- Anti-Tank Weapons
- 40mm Ammunition for CV 90 Combat Vehicles
- Grenade Launchers
- Anti-Tank Mines
- Combat Vehicle Camouflage Kits
- Winter Clothing and Equipment
- Six Stridsbåt 90 Fast Patrol Boats and Other Marine Gear
In addition to these supplies, Sweden is supporting various Ukrainian and multinational programs, including the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) and Czech ammunition procurement initiatives.
Gripen JAS 39: A Potential Future Asset
Sweden is in the midst of upgrading its Gripen JAS 39C/D aircraft to the newer JAS 39E variant. This upgrade has led to the decommissioning of some older models. Currently, Sweden operates just under 100 JAS 39C/D Gripens, which were set to be replaced by the modern JAS 39E. However, the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 prompted Sweden to expand its air force.
While there are no immediate plans to transfer Gripen jets to Ukraine, half of the new aid package will be allocated for purchasing components for JAS 39C/D Gripens. This strategy could preserve some of these older aircraft, potentially making them available for Ukraine in the future.
Future Prospects for Gripen Transfer
Sweden plans to maintain a fleet of 120 Gripen aircraft by 2030, divided between 60 JAS 39C/D and 60 JAS 39E variants. Considering factors such as airframe fatigue and training needs, Stockholm might have 20 to 30 Gripen JAS 39C/Ds available for other uses, including a possible transfer to Ukraine.
The Swedish Ministry of Defense has noted that by acquiring new parts, some JAS 39C/D jets could be spared from dismantling and potentially transferred to Ukraine, pending government approval. Defense Minister Pål Jonson has hinted that Sweden is keeping its options open for a future Gripen transfer.
Ukrainian Reactions and Strategic Considerations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a recent message on X/Twitter, thanked Sweden for its support but did not specifically mention the Gripen jets. He highlighted the importance of the assistance, including anti-aircraft systems, anti-tank weapons, and financial contributions.
Previous discussions about transferring Gripens to Ukraine were paused due to concerns over the complexities of acquiring F-16 fighters and the logistical challenges involved. Despite this, the possibility of a Gripen transfer remains a topic of interest among analysts and military strategists.
The Gripen Advantage
Ukrainian Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Ihor Zhovkva has mentioned that the president frequently discusses Gripen jets with Swedish officials. He believes that Gripens are as capable as F-16s and that Ukraine is moving in that direction.
Brig. Gen. Serhii Holubtsov, the aviation chief of Ukraine’s Air Force, supports this view, stating that Ukrainian infrastructure is ready for Gripens. Many commentators argue that Gripen might be a better fit for Ukraine’s varied and dynamic combat environment due to its advanced avionics, smaller size, and compatibility with NATO weapons systems.
Challenges and Considerations
Gripen jets offer advantages such as operating from shorter runways and being maintained by smaller teams in harsh conditions, which could benefit Ukraine during its severe winters. However, transferring Gripens would require U.S. approval due to the aircraft’s U.S. components covered by International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Without this approval, the transfer could face similar restrictions to those affecting other advanced weapon systems.
In 2023, Sweden began planning to train Ukrainian pilots and maintenance crews on the JAS 39 Gripen. Although these plans were not realized, they could be revived if the decision to transfer Gripens is made.