Hungary buys Swedish fighter jets, ready to approve Sweden’s NATO bid

Hungary solidifies its commitment to NATO by finalizing a deal to purchase four Saab JAS Gripen fighter jets from Sweden

Hungary announced on Friday that it has finalized a deal to purchase four Saab JAS Gripen fighter jets from Sweden, marking a significant step as Budapest moves closer to approving Stockholm’s bid to join NATO.

This decision comes after nearly two years of delays, with Hungary being the last member of the military alliance to support Sweden’s application, which was made in 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who recently announced that parliament would vote on the ratification on Monday, met with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and emphasized the efforts to “rebuild trust” between the two nations.

Orban stated that Hungary will not only acquire the fighter jets but also expand upon a related logistics contract. Currently, Hungary leases Gripen aircraft under a contract initiated in 2001.

“We are not only maintaining but also enhancing our air defense capability. This will not only reinforce our commitment to NATO but also bolster our participation in the alliance’s joint operations,” Orban remarked during a joint press conference with Kristersson.

Kristersson expressed his approval of the deal, highlighting the importance of cooperation between the two countries. “While we may not see eye to eye on every issue, we both recognize the value of collaboration,” he mentioned, standing alongside Orban.

Orban’s nationalist government had previously postponed the ratification multiple times, citing concerns over Sweden’s criticism of Hungary’s record on the rule of law.

Source: Newsroom

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