SINGAPORE — Ukraine and Sweden are currently in talks regarding the potential supply of the Meteor missile to Kyiv, Europe’s leading air-to-air missile, as confirmed by a representative from Saab. This missile is considered an integral part of the arsenal for Gripen aircraft operators.
Last week, Mykhailo Fedorov, the Ukrainian Defense Minister, disclosed that discussions were ongoing about the possible deployment of JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets and Meteor missiles to Ukraine. These missiles, which are effective beyond visual range, are presently compatible only with the Gripen, Eurofighter, and Rafale jets. Meanwhile, the UK is spearheading tests to integrate these missiles on the F-35 from ground stations.
Potential Enhancement of Ukraine’s Air Defense Capabilities
Jussi Halmetoja, an operations advisor in the air domain at Saab, mentioned during the Singapore Airshow that the Meteor missile would naturally be included in any weapon package provided to Gripen users, with discussions ongoing with several nations, including Ukraine. Halmetoja emphasized that equipping Ukraine with Meteor missiles would significantly bolster its aerial operations by extending the engagement range of its pilots and limiting the maneuverability and air control of Russian aircraft.
In late the previous year, Ukraine and Sweden drafted a letter of intent concerning the export of up to 150 Gripen jets to Kyiv, though the deal has not yet been finalized.
About the Meteor Missile
The Meteor missile is a 419-pound (190 kilogram) projectile produced by MBDA, which was first commissioned by the Swedish Air Force for use on the Gripen in 2016. This missile was developed collaboratively by six European nations, including Sweden, under the leadership of MBDA.
It is powered by a combination of a rocket booster and a throttleable ramjet motor, which sustains thrust up to the point of impact. This feature allows for adjustments in trajectory during the final attack phase, expanding the effective kill-zone relative to traditional rocket-powered missiles which lose propulsion post initial boost. Saab reports the Meteor’s operational range exceeds 100 kilometers, with speeds surpassing Mach 4, although it is often said to operate up to around 200 kilometers.
According to a September 2022 report by the London-based International Institute for Security Studies, the Meteor is considered one of the most proficient air-to-air missiles currently in service among Western combat aircraft.
Last year, Sweden procured its third batch of Meteor missiles for the Gripen fighters through an international deal, with MBDA’s British division supplying the systems.
MBDA did not provide a comment at the time this information was gathered.
Contribution to this report was made by Rudy Ruitenberg from Paris.
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Jamal Peterson reports on defense, aerospace, and tech policy. With a military background and a strategic mind, he dissects complex subjects with clarity, offering readers sharp, reliable insights.
