Sweden set to supply Ukraine with 120 Gripen fighter jets

Sweden is preparing to sell a significant number of its JAS 39 Gripen E fighter jets to Ukraine, with reports indicating that up to 120 aircraft could be transferred, according to Swedish media.

The JAS 39 Gripen E represents the latest version of Sweden’s multirole fighter, developed by Saab. It features a more powerful engine, extended range, and upgraded radar and electronic systems compared with earlier models.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are scheduled to meet on October 22 in Linköping, where Saab’s production facilities are located, around 200 km from Stockholm. The talks are expected to focus on deepening defence cooperation, and the Swedish government has indicated that “news in the field of military exports” will be announced following the meeting.

The discussions on fighter jets began in 2023, when Ukrainian pilots trained on Saab’s Gripen jets. The aircraft are considered NATO-compatible and suitable for short-runway operations, an advantage given the vulnerability of Ukrainian airbases to Russian strikes.

Initially, plans to transfer 10–14 Gripen C/D models were paused in mid-2024, following advice from NATO allies, who prioritised integrating F-16s to avoid logistical complications. France’s deliveries of Mirage 2000 jets were similarly delayed.

Sweden continued to support Ukraine in preparation for future deliveries. A $400 million package in September 2024 provided Gripen spare parts, followed by components for 14 aircraft in November, demonstrating an ongoing commitment. Talks also explored upgrading Ukraine’s Soviet-era MiG-29s and Su-27s with Saab avionics for interim improvements.

By August 2025, President Zelenskyy described the collaboration as a “strong, decades-long” aviation project. Plans for advanced Gripen E/F sales were set to take place after the conflict, and meetings such as the October 2 session in Copenhagen reaffirmed Ukraine’s interest. 

By Tamilla Hasanova