Advanced radar built in Fareham to equip Sweden fighter jets for Ukraine's 'fierce resistance' against Russia
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The state-of-the-art Saab manufacturing facility supports 400 jobs
Vital components to equip Swedish fighter jets being donated to Ukraine will be built in the Fareham area.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced that the state-of-the-art Saab facility in Segensworth will create radars and equipment. This is part of an agreement between the UK, Sweden, US, and Ukraine, to create Gripen aircraft to be used to fight against Russia.
Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “This deal shows what British industry can achieve on the world stage - supporting thousands of jobs while helping to deliver the air power Ukraine needs to defend itself against Russia’s illegal invasion. By standing with our allies and backing Ukraine, we are securing real benefits for British workers and businesses. This is our international partnerships working for Britain.”
The fighter jet deal supports over 5000 jobs across the UK, including the 400 roles in Fareham. Sweden is donating 16 Gripen aircraft to Ukraine, with the Eastern European nation purchasing a further 20 through a support loan. Gripens are considered modern, agile and highly capable multirole air combat platforms. More than 30 per cent of each aircraft will be manufactured in Britain, including landing gear and radar systems.
Sweden has already exported Gripen aircraft to Columbia and Tahiland, while having a history of industrial collaboration with the UK. Saab is investing £100m in its Fareham facility, while BAE Systems creates further components through BAE Bofors and BAE Hägglunds.
Britain is continuing its support for Ukraine via training alongside its armed forces, sharing expertise, and supplying billions of pounds a year through military equipment including 120,000 drones this year. Windracers in Brunel Way is another Fareham-based company contributing to this effort. Royal Air Force pilots have also deployed alongside Swedish Gripens in the past, policing the skies over Poland.
Minister of defence readiness and industry, Luke Pollard, said: “As the fierce resistance of the Ukrainians continues, and as Russian aggression grows, the UK will not waver. We will stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and our NATO Allies like Sweden, bringing the combined power of our industries to bear to support the fight against Putin’s illegal war.
“This deal is both a big boost for Ukraine’s air power and a show of confidence in our world-leading UK defence industry, supporting thousands of good British jobs here at home. This is the UK stepping up as one for Ukraine: our government, our military and our industry.”