Swedish company Saab and the Joint Stock Company Ukrainian Defense Industry (JS UDI) have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand cooperation in aviation and airborne surveillance.
The agreement, announced at a multinational security meeting in Munich, outlines plans to collaborate on aircraft, radar, avionics, and related monitoring technologies to enhance Kyiv’s defense capabilities.
The deal was signed between Anders Carp, deputy CEO at Saab, and JS UDI’s head Herman Smetanin.
“I am very pleased that we are moving toward turning this ambitious project into reality,” The Odessa Journal quoted Smetanin as saying.
“This cooperation will significantly enhance the aviation direction of [JS UDI’s] enterprises, allowing us to further strengthen the Ukrainian armed forces.”
Carp echoed the sentiment, saying that his company remains committed to long-term cooperation.
“We look forward to collaborating with JSC UDI, exploring cooperation opportunities relating to Ukraine. Saab is strongly committed to supporting Ukraine’s defence capability and its defence sector,” Carp stated.
Brief Overview
JS UDI, established under Ukrainian government directives, consolidates state and civilian enterprises that manufacture weapons and military capabilities.
It plays a central role in the country’s defense sector, with over 130 organizations under its control, and currently serves as one of the top 50 arms manufacturers globally.
Saab, also among the leading international defense companies, is known for its flagship JAS 39 Gripen supersonic fighter jet, the Carl-Gustaf recoilless rifle, and other warhead and aviation solutions.
