Sweden is considering a historic decision in 2023 that could profoundly reshape Ukraine’s defenses against Russian aggression. As reports circulate within Sweden, the government is seriously considering equipping Ukraine with the formidable Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, a move that could bring the Scandinavian nation’s Cold War-era fears full circle by directly confronting Russian military might.
Sweden’s potential deployment of the Gripen, a fighter jet developed during the Cold War to counteract Soviet threats, is gaining traction. Defense Minister Pål Jonson instructed Swedish military leadership to examine the ramifications of such support, setting a deadline of November 6, 2023, for a comprehensive analysis. Amid concerns over maintaining Sweden’s defensive prowess and long-term fiscal planning, Jonson emphasized the need to evaluate how providing the Gripens could affect both immediate and future defense capabilities.
Experts suggest the Gripen’s delivery to Ukraine might take a year, considering pilot and engineer training on the aircraft’s unique systems. Yet, the introduction of even a modest squadron could significantly boost Ukraine’s operational strength and morale. As Sweden’s neighbors, including Norway and Denmark, commit to sending F-16 jets to Kyiv, the prospect of Swedish Gripens joining the fray is a subject of escalating debate.
“This analysis is going to need to look at how our defensive capabilities are affected, both our operative capability here and now and our long-term defense finances,” he told reporters in Stockholm.
Sweden, currently on the path to NATO membership, has faced obstacles from Turkey and Hungary in finalizing its accession. However, the country’s resolve to support Ukraine remains unwavering, and its decision to send Gripens is tied to its NATO membership status. Notably, the Swedish Air Force is already training Ukrainian pilots, hinting at potential cooperation.
It was created with the appropriate opponent in mind: according to the British defense think tank RUSI, the aircraft “is specifically designed to combat Russian SAMs [surface-to-air missile systems] and fast jets by flying at very low altitudes, equipped with an internal electronic warfare suite, and meant to be easily maintained and operated from scattered bases with mobile teams in vehicles”.
The Gripen’s suitability for the Ukrainian conflict is notable. Its capability to operate from shortened, improvised runways and withstand enemy attacks on larger bases stands out. Renowned for its agility and electronic warfare system tailored to counter Russian aircraft and surface-to-air missiles, the Gripen is a symbol of resilience and adaptability.
Relevant articles:
– Sweden edges closer to sending Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine – POLITICO, politico.eu, Oct 17, 2023
– All About the Gripen, Sweden’s Fighter Jet That Ukraine Might Get, popularmechanics.com
– The Swedish fighter plane that could make a difference in Ukraine, Euronews.com
– Sweden says it’ll consider sending Gripens to Ukraine only after NATO membership, Breaking Defense, Oct 6, 2023