Ukraine and Sweden Sign Historic Agreement on Joint Defense Production
During a significant diplomatic visit by Swedish Defense Minister Peter Jonson to Ukraine, the two nations reached a landmark agreement paving the way for unprecedented cooperation in defense manufacturing.
On August 23, in Kyiv and Stockholm, officials signed a document establishing joint production facilities for military equipment and armaments within both countries.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal emphasized that this memorandum is not merely a formal agreement but a strategic move that demonstrates Kyiv’s and Stockholm’s mutual commitment to enhancing security, sharing technological innovations, and fostering industrial progress in the defense sector.
The agreement facilitates technology exchange and joint projects aimed at accelerating the development of modern weapons systems and military equipment.
Furthermore, discussions included the possibility of recruiting senior officers up to 70 years old into the Ukrainian armed forces and deepening collaboration in military aviation—specifically pilot training and joint initiatives between Ukrainian and Swedish aerospace companies.
Shmyhal expressed gratitude to the Swedish government for providing radar reconnaissance systems ASC 890 and highlighted support during Ukraine’s ongoing fight against Russian aggression through participation in international initiatives like PURL and the allocation of $486 million, shared with Norway and Denmark.
The cooperation in military aviation was also a key topic, involving pilot training and joint projects with Swedish defense firms.
He thanked Sweden for its strategic deliveries of military hardware and recognized these steps as part of a broader effort, where recently, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden pledged over $500 million to NATO’s aid package, including the supply of Patriot missile systems.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg commended these Nordic countries for their swift and decisive actions, significantly contributing to regional security and Ukraine’s defense capabilities.