Ukrainian military pilots have completed their introductory training on Swedish fighter jets. The Swedish defence minister does not rule out sending JAS Gripen to the Air Force of Ukraine.
This was reported by Sveriges Radio, citing a written statement by the defence minister, Pål Jonsson.
“The introductory training has been completed, and according to the report I received from the armed forces, the training went well,” the minister said.
The induction training reportedly included test flights on aircraft and simulators and training for ground personnel.
“As we have said, we do not rule out sending the Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine. The training experience should now form the basis of ongoing work to clarify the conditions for this,” said Pål Jonsson.
Sweden has up to a hundred Gripen fighter jets in its fleet.
As highlighted by many experts, Ukraine lacks air support to repel Russian troops, conduct counteroffensive operations faster and liberate Russia-occupied territories. For this, Kyiv needs modern Western aircraft. Ukraine will receive the US-made F-16 fighter jets at the beginning of 2024.
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is a fourth-generation multi-role fighter developed by Swedish company Saab AB. It was produced in 1979 and made its first flight in 1988.
The maximum speed at high altitude is 2130 km/h, at sea level – 1225 km/h. The combat range is 700 km (with a payload of 2000 kg). The Gripen has a 1×27 mm Mauser BK-27 cannon with a 120-round ammunition capacity.
Gripen fighters have been exported to countries such as the Czech Republic, Hungary, South Africa, Thailand and Brazil. The Gripen took part in the international military operation in Libya, where it performed patrol and reconnaissance missions.
