Stockholm: Sweden and Ukraine have announced their intention to establish a joint defense innovation hub, an initiative aimed at merging Sweden's research capabilities with Ukraine's wartime experiences. This agreement was reached through the signing of a letter of intent by Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson and his Ukrainian counterpart Denys Shmyhal.

According to Anadolu Agency, this collaboration will see Swedish personnel actively involved on-site to work on defense innovation. The focus will be on developing new weapon technologies, although immediate production is not expected. A significant aspect of the agreement is Sweden's commitment to deliver Gripen E fighter jets to Ukraine within a three-year timeframe, which includes comprehensive training for pilots and technicians.

The contract timeline is under negotiation, with Ukraine expressing a desire to receive existing fighter jets as early as next year. Shmyhal emphasized Ukraine's intention to secure the delivery by 2026, with production of the E/F Gripen to commence later. The production strategy in Ukraine will gradually shift from large-scale assembly to the localization of individual parts, marking what Shmyhal describes as the largest defense deal on the European continent.

Training programs for Ukrainian pilots and mechanics are planned to align with the delivery of the first Gripens. Shmyhal mentioned the formation of two working groups, technical and financial, to oversee the preparation and financing of this agreement.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the significance of this agreement, noting that it represents a historic step in bolstering Ukraine's air power and long-term security. The agreement encompasses up to 150 Swedish-made Gripen combat aircraft, which Zelenskyy regards as a critical component of ensuring a strong and modern independent Ukraine.