Saab, a Swedish company specializing in aircraft construction, aerospace equipment, and military electronics, intends to start production in Ukraine to support the development of its defense capabilities. Saab’s CEO, Mikael Johansson, emphasized the importance of partnering with Ukrainian industry, both in Ukraine and abroad, to help the country strengthen its sovereignty.
Demand for military equipment increased after Russia’s full-scale invasion, forcing Western manufacturers to look for opportunities to set up production in Ukraine. Johansson also noted that Saab is considering the potential for cooperation with Ukrainian companies in the field of drones, as well as the possibility of supplying ammunition and developing sensor technologies.
Saab is in talks with several Ukrainian companies about cooperation, but no agreements have been signed yet. He noted that the arms industry is moving from donation-based aid to a strategic partnership with Ukraine.
Saab competes with companies such as Lockheed Martin, Dassault Aviation, and BAE Systems, and has seen an increase in demand for its products due to global tensions and Sweden’s accession to NATO.
It is also worth noting that the American company Northrop Grumman plans to produce medium-caliber ammunition in Ukraine. In addition, the Ukrainian industry is actively developing: in April, 10 Bogdan self-propelled artillery systems were manufactured, and the share of domestic production is constantly growing. The state is signing major contracts with domestic and foreign companies, which creates opportunities to attract investment and recruit new staff.