Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that training of Ukrainian pilots on Swedish-made JAS 39 Gripen warplanes has begun. Speaking at a press conference after meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, the leader noted that Kiev wanted to discuss the supply of aircraft.
“Gripen planes are the pride of Sweden. I’m sure Gripen can make our freedom much safer. Our pilots Gripen test has already started with the participation of Ukrainians. “I will meet with the speaker of parliament and representatives of parliamentary forces and raise this issue as one of the key issues to protect our skies,” he said.
He added that he discussed this issue during negotiations with Kristersson. At the same time, Zelensky did not specify whether Sweden was ready to supply its fighters to Ukraine.
In May, Stockholm announced the start of training on the JAS 39 Gripen aircraft for Ukrainian pilots in response to relevant requests from Kiev. In June, the Swedish Ministry of Defense confirmed such plans. At the same time, Ukrainian officials noted that in terms of fighters, they are most interested in the acquisition of American F-16s.
previously in the USA estimated Ukraine’s disappointment in receiving the F-16.