Ukraine and Sweden are preparing a new defence agreement

Zelenskyy discusses defence exports to Saab in Sweden: joint statement expected

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in Sweden to hold talks with the Prime Minister By Ulf Kristersson in the city Linking. After the meeting, the parties should do the following «announcement in the field of defence exports», the Swedish government reported. Linköping is the base city of the concern Saab, a fighter jet manufacturer JAS 39 Gripen, GlobalEye long-range radar surveillance aircraft and other weapons.

What exactly can be announced

The Swedish side announced in advance news on defence exports after the leaders' joint press conference. Media speculate that the focus will be on deepening cooperation with Saab and expanding the export framework for Ukraine. Specific parameters of the agreement (nomenclature, volumes, terms) have not yet been disclosed.

Context: Gripen and the F-16 priority

Ukraine has repeatedly expressed its interest in Gripen; Previously, this issue was postponed to focus on integration F-16. At the same time, Stockholm and Kyiv are keeping the channel on Gripen open, as evidenced by previous high-level contacts.

Why the meeting was held in Linköping

Linköping is the centre of the Swedish defence industry. It is here that key production sites are located Saab, So the visit is seen as a signalling on the intention to expand industrial cooperation, including possible elements of joint production/maintenance, The company's main focus is on logistics and training.

What this means for Ukraine

The expected statement may formalise new supply channels or expand the scope of existing support programmes, in particular in the areas of aviation, air defence, radar and precision weapons. Even without immediate «tomorrow's deliveries» strategic certainty and production cooperation with Sweden strengthen the long-term sustainability of Ukrainian defence. (Analytical conclusion based on media reports.)