Hungary Signs Deal to Buy Fighter Jets from Sweden as NATO Membership Bid Approaches Approval
Hungary has finally signed a deal to purchase four fighter jets from Sweden, marking a significant step towards approving Stockholm’s bid to join NATO. The announcement came after nearly two years of delays, making Hungary the last NATO country to approve Sweden’s membership bid. The news was revealed during a joint news conference held by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
Prime Minister Orban expressed his satisfaction with the agreement, stating, “We not only keep our air defense capability but will increase it.” He emphasized that this deal would strengthen Hungary’s commitment to NATO and enhance their participation in joint operations. In addition to the fighter jets, Hungary will also expand its existing logistics contract with Sweden. Currently, Hungary leases Gripen aircraft under a contract signed in 2001.
Prime Minister Kristersson welcomed the deal, highlighting the constructive nature of the conversation between the two countries. He stated, “We do not agree on everything, but we do agree that we should work more actively together when we have common ground.” This sentiment reflects the shared interests and goals of Hungary and Sweden in strengthening their defense capabilities.
The approval of Sweden’s NATO membership bid has faced significant delays, straining Budapest’s relations with the United States and causing concerns among its allies. Sweden initially sought to join the military alliance in 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Finland, another country affected by the conflict, became the 31st member of NATO last year. This move not only doubled NATO’s border with Russia but also bolstered the defenses of three Baltic countries that joined the alliance after the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Hungary’s ratification of Sweden’s NATO application will be decided through a parliamentary vote scheduled for Monday. The Hungarian government had previously cited unresolved military and arms issues as reasons for the delay. Prime Minister Orban stated, “We are pro-peace, and the Swedes are pro-war in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict,” highlighting the differences in values between the two countries. However, he expressed optimism that these disparities could be bridged.
Sweden’s potential membership in NATO holds strategic significance, particularly due to its long coastline on the Baltic Sea. If Sweden successfully joins the alliance, it could become a vital logistics hub for NATO in Northern Europe. This would further strengthen NATO’s presence in the region and enhance its defense capabilities.
The decision to join NATO marks a shift for Sweden, as military non-alignment had been a point of pride for the country. However, public opinion has changed in light of the Ukraine war. Sweden has already been actively participating in NATO exercises in the region, demonstrating its commitment to collective defense.
Prime Minister Orban’s previous reluctance to ratify Sweden’s NATO bid stemmed from concerns over Stockholm’s criticism of Hungary’s rule of law and democracy. Orban had maintained close economic ties with Russia and had also refused to send weapons to Ukraine. However, he recently called for a ceasefire in the conflict, acknowledging that a military solution was not feasible.
As Hungary prepares to approve Sweden’s NATO membership bid, it signifies a significant step towards strengthening the transatlantic military alliance. The purchase of fighter jets from Sweden not only enhances Hungary’s air defense capabilities but also solidifies its commitment to NATO and joint operations. With the parliamentary vote approaching, all eyes are on Hungary as it makes its final decision regarding Sweden’s NATO application.
