Ukraine is seeking additional air defence interceptors, ammunition for F-16 fighter jets and faster deliveries of European missile systems as Russia intensifies its aerial attacks.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara discussed these priorities in separate telephone conversations with his Norwegian counterpart Tore Sandvik and Sweden’s Defence Minister Pål Jonson.
The talks focused on replenishing Ukraine’s air defence stocks, strengthening protection against ballistic missiles and jet-powered drones, and preparing for the arrival of Swedish Gripen fighter jets.
During his conversation with Sandvik, Khmara identified interceptor missiles as Ukraine’s most urgent requirement and discussed ways Norway could help accelerate deliveries.
The ministers also reviewed a project to integrate additional types of missiles into NASAMS air defence systems already operated by Ukrainian forces.
Another priority was countering Russia’s growing use of jet-powered attack drones. Khmara emphasised the importance of maintaining regular supplies of ammunition for Ukraine’s F-16 aircraft, which play a significant role in intercepting aerial threats.
Ukraine is also seeking additional man-portable air defence systems and missiles to protect critical facilities and infrastructure.
In discussions with Sweden, Khmara focused particularly on the urgent need for Patriot interceptors capable of countering Russian ballistic missiles.
Although Ukraine has already contracted additional Patriot missiles, the country needs supplies before the scheduled deliveries arrive.
Kyiv has therefore proposed that partners transfer interceptors from their existing inventories in exchange for future deliveries originally intended for Ukraine.
The Ukrainian and Swedish defence ministers also discussed accelerating deliveries of missiles for IRIS-T air defence systems and providing additional Swedish man-portable air defence systems and ammunition.
A separate part of the conversation concerned preparations for Ukraine to receive Swedish Gripen fighter jets.
According to Khmara, training of Ukrainian aircrews is progressing according to plan. He stressed that the aircraft, together with their weapons, would strengthen Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian tactical aviation, particularly aircraft launching guided aerial bombs against frontline cities.
Khmara also briefed Jonson on the consequences of Russia’s latest overnight attack and the immediate requirements for protecting civilian and critical infrastructure.
The Ukrainian defence minister thanked both Norway and Sweden for their continued military assistance, stressing that accelerating deliveries of air defence weapons remains essential to protecting Ukrainian cities.
No specific delivery dates or quantities of additional missiles and aircraft were announced following the conversations.
