Hungary Agrees to Ratify Sweden's NATO Accession After Jet Fighter Deal

The deal to purchase additional Gripen jet fighters from Sweden paves the way for Hungary to ratify Sweden's long-awaited NATO membership.

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban confirmed that Hungary will ratify Sweden's NATO accession following a deal to purchase additional Gripen jet fighters from Sweden.
The agreement, which expands Hungary's fleet of Swedish-built Gripen aircraft to 18, is seen as a key factor in rebuilding trust between Hungary and Sweden.
Sweden's NATO bid had been delayed due to Hungary's concerns over trust issues, stemming from Swedish criticism of Hungary's democratic practices.
The deal also includes an expansion of a related logistics contract, with Hungary's lease agreement for the current Gripens set to expire in 2026.
Hungary's ratification of Sweden's NATO membership is the final step needed, with a parliamentary vote scheduled for Monday.