Ukraine to Acquire 16 Gripen Fighters from Sweden

Ukraine has finalized a deal to purchase 16 Saab Gripen E fighter jets from Sweden, with the contract valued at approximately 24.6 billion Swedish krona, or 2.54 billion dollars.

Agreement Details and Delivery Timeline

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the procurement of 16 Gripen E fighter jets. The contract, signed with Swedish manufacturer Saab, includes a comprehensive package of equipment, technical support, and maintenance services. The first aircraft are expected to be delivered to the Ukrainian Air Force by the beginning of 2027.

Bilateral Defense Cooperation

During a meeting with Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson, President Zelenskyy discussed the implementation of this agreement alongside broader security cooperation. The discussions also covered preparations for the “Drone Deal” program and the ongoing development of advanced anti-missile systems to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

Previous Commitments and Fleet Modernization

Earlier arrangements established by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson outlined that Sweden would donate 16 JAS 39 Gripen C/D jets, including training costs, valued at 22.2 billion krona. Beyond this donation, the new contract covers the purchase of the advanced JAS 39 Gripen E/F variants, with deliveries for these newer models projected to commence in 2030.