Ukraine to receive 16 Swedish Gripen fighter jets

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced that Sweden will transfer 16 previously operated Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine as part of broader efforts to strengthen Kyiv’s air defence capabilities amid the ongoing war with Russia.

Kristersson made the announcement during a joint press conference in Uppsala with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, European Pravda reports.

The Swedish prime minister said the delivery of the Gripen aircraft would represent a significant contribution to the long-term development of Ukraine’s air force and air defence systems. He noted that Kyiv considers the Gripen platform a priority option for its future aerial capabilities and is also interested in acquiring the latest Gripen E model.

Kristersson added that Sweden plans to procure 20 new Gripen fighter jets, while negotiations regarding future deliveries to Ukraine are continuing.

Under the current arrangement, Sweden will transfer 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets that were previously in operational service. Deliveries are expected to begin in early 2027.

According to Kristersson, the decision “will strengthen Ukraine’s air defence and Europe’s aerial protection.”

By Vafa Guliyeva