Sweden has officially announced its decision to transfer 16 Gripen JAS 39C/D fighter jets to Ukraine by 2027, along with plans to sell 22 Gripen JAS 39E models to Kyiv by 2030. This commitment was made public by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The declaration, signed at a military base in Uppsala, marks a significant step in the deepening defense collaboration between Sweden and Ukraine. Prime Minister Kristersson emphasized the need to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, stating that the Gripen aircraft will provide long-term protection for the nation.
“Ukraine has clearly identified Gripen as its choice and priority for long-term air defense. The country aims to acquire the latest model, the Gripen E/F. We will supply 22 Gripen E models, with negotiations ongoing and expected to conclude soon,” Kristersson noted.
In addition to the future acquisitions, Sweden will provide 16 Gripen C/D jets from its own inventory, scheduled for delivery in early 2027. “Negotiations have concluded, and Ukraine will soon sign an agreement. Sweden will then work on export arrangements to facilitate the delivery of Gripen C and D models, enhancing both Ukraine’s air defense and the overall security of Europe,” the Prime Minister added.
President Zelenskyy announced that Sweden’s support package for Ukraine totals $2.7 billion, with $2 billion allocated specifically for the aircraft and nearly $400 million earmarked for drone production. “We expect to receive the first Gripens within the next ten months. I believe we will have our initial Gripens with Ukrainian pilots by December or January,” he stated.
Zelenskyy also confirmed that the aircraft will come equipped with the necessary armaments, which will aid in defending against Russian precision-guided munitions. Furthermore, he mentioned Ukraine’s intention to purchase 150 Gripen fighters from Sweden, contingent on securing financing through a €90 billion loan.
“We are committed to acquiring all 150 fighters, provided we secure sufficient funding. We are counting on the €90 billion, and we will approach this step by step,” he remarked.
In 2025, Sweden and Ukraine signed a letter of intent that may facilitate an agreement for 100 to 150 Gripen aircraft. The Saab JAS 39 Gripen jets are designed for air combat, ground and maritime strike missions, and reconnaissance operations. They are equipped with a 27-mm Mauser BK-27 cannon and feature ten weapon suspension points, allowing them to utilize a wide range of munitions, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, as well as bombs of various calibers.
Sweden has committed to supplying Ukraine with 16 Gripen C/D jets by 2027 and 22 Gripen E models by 2030, enhancing Ukraine's air defense capabilities. This initiative is part of a broader support package totaling $2.7 billion, aimed at strengthening military cooperation between the two nations.