Ukraine and Sweden join forces for local production of air defense systems
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The Swedish defense concern Saab has signed an agreement with Ukraine on the joint production of air defense systems within the framework of the Build in Ukraine state initiative.
This is reported by Army Recognition.
The project is designed to strengthen the domestic defense-industrial base, shorten supply chains, and attract foreign investment even in times of war. The production of air defense directly in Ukraine also demonstrates the growing confidence of international partners in the country’s ability to produce and maintain modern weapons in combat situations.
Saab plans to localize the production of systems that are already in service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The list includes the RBS 70 NG portable anti-aircraft system with laser guidance, the MSHORAD mobile installation for protecting ground objects, and the Giraffe family of multifunctional radars that can detect low-visibility air targets. These models have proven their effectiveness in Europe, and their production in Ukraine will allow for reduced delivery times and on-site service.
Ukraine already has practical experience with Saab equipment: in 2022, the country received RBS 70 complexes, Ukrainian calculations were trained at the end of the same year, and the first systems went on duty at the beginning of 2023. Ukrainian units also received Giraffe radars to enhance air surveillance – therefore, these samples look most likely for localization of production.
Analysts point to several key benefits of local production: reduced dependence on imports during periods of intense shelling, the ability to repair and restore equipment more quickly after damage, and the creation of highly skilled jobs in the technology sector. For Saab, this is a chance to expand production capabilities and integrate into one of Europe’s most active defense ecosystems.
The Build in Ukraine initiative is part of the state strategy to transition from arms imports to their localization. More than 25 international companies in the fields of armored vehicles, ammunition, cybersecurity, and anti-UAV systems have already joined the project. Cooperation with Saab in the air defense sector is another step towards creating a full-fledged European-level defense cluster in Ukraine, capable of promptly responding to threats and independently maintaining combat capability.
It was also previously reported that Italy is preparing another, already 12th, package of military support for Ukraine , which will focus mainly on the supply of ammunition and missiles for SAMP/T air defense systems.
We also recall that Ukraine expects to purchase Patriot air defense systems with funds received from frozen Russian assets, as well as within the framework of bilateral security agreements.
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