Sweden to Supply Gripen E Jets to Ukraine Under New Defense Cooperation Deal
At Saab in Linköping today, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a letter of intent outlining long-term cooperation on air defense and defense industry collaboration. The agreement includes plans for Ukraine to purchase 100–150 of Sweden’s latest JAS 39 Gripen E fighter jets over the next 10-15 years.
The Gripen E, Sweden’s newest generation fighter jet, began entering service with the Swedish Air Force just two days ago, marking the latest stage in the country’s multi-role aircraft development. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that the goal is to begin deliveries to Ukraine within three years. The announcement represents a major step in Sweden–Ukraine defense relations and fulfills a long-standing ambition from Kyiv to strengthen its air defense with Swedish-built aircraft.
The letter of intent focuses on export cooperation rather than new donations, and financing details will be explored in the months ahead. The Swedish government’s preference is that frozen Russian assets be used as payment for the deal.
