We have said from our party that we are prepared to make Gripen available within the framework of the flight coalition, he says.
Hultqvist refers to the F-16 coalition consisting of a number of European countries that train Ukrainian pilots and have also provided Ukraine with American F-16 fighter jets.
Sweden has contributed two radar reconnaissance aircraft of the type ASC 890 to Ukraine. But the Social Democrats believe that Gripen aircraft can also be included as a donation.
Our stance remains firm, says Peter Hultqvist.
”Not current”
The government has said that "we have parked the discussion" about the role of the Swedish fighter jet in Ukraine right now. No talks are underway, according to Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (The Moderate Party).
We have never ruled out older models as part of our support to Ukraine. But right now it's not current, says Kristersson on his way to the EU summit in Brussels.
Sweden has "full hands" with complementing the American effort with two Swedish radar reconnaissance aircraft, according to Kristersson.
”Is good”
Instead, the news came on Wednesday that Sweden and Ukraine have signed a declaration of intent for a deal on between 100 and 150 new Jas Gripen E fighter jets to Ukraine, where the first delivery could take place in three years.
We think this is good. Of course, a lot of negotiations remain, but just that one stands by this position is good and that Sweden would be involved in building Ukraine's future air force, it was initiated already when we were in government, says Peter Hultqvist.
