Khmara, Swedish defence minister discuss accelerating missile deliveries for IRIS-T, need for MANPADS, ammunition

Ukrainian Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara met with Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson to discuss accelerating missile deliveries for IRIS-T air defense systems. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense reported that Khmara informed Jonson about the impact of a recent Russian attack and Ukraine's urgent need to bolster its airspace defense.

The primary focus of the discussion was the necessity to enhance the country's ability to counter ballistic threats promptly. This includes securing interceptors for the Patriot system. Khmara emphasized that Ukraine is prepared to collaborate with partners on various supply channels. Every delivery of interceptors and any opportunity to safeguard civilians, infrastructure, and critical facilities is of utmost importance to Ukraine.

Khmara stated that while Ukraine has secured quantities of missiles for the Patriot system, they are requesting partners to transfer interceptors from their current stockpiles in return for future deliveries intended for Ukraine.

The Swedish minister also brought up the need for additional Swedish man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) and ammunition. They discussed the delivery of Gripen fighter jets, with Ukraine and Sweden adhering to a training plan. Khmara highlighted that the arrival of these aircraft, along with their armaments, will significantly bolster the Ukrainian Air Force's capacity to counter Russian guided bombs threatening frontline cities.