The production of the Swedish multi-role Gripen fighters in Ukraine will begin in 2033, Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmygal announced.
On November 6, a memorandum was signed between a Ukrainian company and the Swedish manufacturer Saab, which provides for the gradual localization of production, he announced.
"We expect that by 2033, Gripen will be significantly localized in Ukraine: from the assembly of large units to the localization of individual components," Shmygal said.
The news comes after the letter of intent signed on October 22 between Sweden and Ukraine for the potential supply of up to 150 Gripen fighters.
Sweden ordered 60 Gripen E fighters more in 2013, but did not receive the first one until 2024. Saab is already fulfilling orders for countries such as Brazil and Thailand, although their contracts are for significantly smaller quantities.