Sweden announced on Wednesday that it will provide $1.23 billion in military aid to Ukraine, marking the largest assistance package the country has offered so far.
Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch highlighted that the aid includes equipment that Ukraine urgently needs, such as air defense systems, artillery ammunition, and armored vehicles.
Defense Minister Pål Jonsson clarified that while Sweden is not currently sending its JAS 39 Gripen jets to Ukraine, the focus remains on supporting Ukraine’s implementation of the F-16 fighter jet program. Several countries, including Belgium, have already pledged F-16 jets to Ukraine.
Jonsson mentioned that Sweden might consider contributing with the Gripen system in the future. The aid package also includes two Swedish-made SAAB ASCC airborne early warning and control airplanes, which Jonsson emphasized would significantly enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. These aircraft will complement the F-16 fighter jets promised by the United States.
“This is a calculated risk as these are the only two such aircraft we have in Sweden,” Jonsson said, acknowledging the temporary decline in Swedish defense capability. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson praised the move, calling it an incredibly strong contribution to Ukraine’s defense.
The package also includes a versatile missile system that can be used both on aircraft and in ground-based air defense, provided in cooperation with the United States.
This support package is Sweden’s 16th since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, underscoring the country’s commitment to aiding Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
