Islamabad – Ukraine is poised to significantly strengthen its air defense and combat aviation capabilities after announcing plans to acquire up to 20 of Sweden’s latest-generation Gripen E fighter jets, while Stockholm will also donate 16 older Gripen aircraft to Kyiv as part of deepening defense cooperation between the two countries.
The announcement was made during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s official visit to Sweden, where he held talks with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at an air base in Uppsala, north of Stockholm.
According to the Swedish government, Ukraine plans to allocate 2.5 billion euros ($2.9 billion) from a European Union loan package to finance the purchase of the advanced Saab JAS 39 Gripen Gripen E fighter jets.
Kristersson said Sweden aims to finalize an agreement on the new-generation aircraft swiftly, with deliveries expected to begin in 2030. He also confirmed that 16 donated older-model Gripen jets will be transferred to Ukraine in early 2027.
“This is a historic decision for Sweden, but it also strengthens Ukraine’s air defence significantly,” Kristersson said during the joint press conference.
The agreement marks a major step in Ukraine’s efforts to modernize its air force and enhance its ability to defend its airspace amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Gripen aircraft are widely regarded for their advanced radar systems, electronic warfare capabilities, operational flexibility, and effectiveness in contested environments.
The two countries had previously signed a letter of intent in October outlining Kyiv’s interest in purchasing between 100 and 150 Gripen E fighters. Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s ambition to secure the full fleet, expressing hope that sufficient international financing could be arranged.
“We hope we will be able to secure financing for all of them,” the Ukrainian president said.
Sweden had earlier paused plans in 2024 to provide Gripen jets to Ukraine after allied nations requested priority be given to the delivery of American-made General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets. However, the latest agreement signals a renewed and expanded Swedish role in supporting Ukraine’s long-term air defense modernization.
BY: The Times Union
