Photo: Saab
Ukraine and Sweden have signed an agreement for the purchase of Gripen E fighter jets, with the package also including equipment, technical assistance and long-term support.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that the agreement covers the acquisition of 16 Gripen E aircraft.
“Together with Sweden, we are continuing to strengthen Ukraine’s combat aviation. Today our countries signed an agreement to purchase 16 Gripen E fighter jets. Along with the aircraft, Ukraine will receive the necessary equipment, technical assistance and support,” Zelenskyy said.
He added that, under previous agreements, the Ukrainian Air Force is expected to receive its first 16 Gripen C/D aircraft in early 2027.
Two-stage cooperation
According to Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s and Sweden’s defense ministries, together with Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), completed all the necessary preparations before signing the agreement.
Fedorov said the cooperation includes two key phases:
- Operational phase: The delivery of the first 16 Gripen C/D fighters in early 2027 will allow Ukraine to integrate the platform, train pilots and maintenance crews, adapt infrastructure and strengthen the Air Force’s combat capabilities.
- Strategic phase: Ukraine will purchase 16 Gripen E fighters using European Union funding with support from the United Kingdom. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in early 2029.
In addition to the aircraft, Ukraine will receive logistics, technical support and other essential equipment. Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel are already undergoing training in Sweden.
Swedish officials have previously stressed that supporting Ukraine is an important element of Sweden’s own national security. Discussions on a potential Gripen deal had been ongoing before the agreement was formally signed.
