Ukraine plans to buy 150 Swedish Gripen fighter jets under new defense agreement

The President’s Office reported this.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson signed a letter of intent outlining the possible acquisition of up to 150 multirole JAS 39 Gripen E fighters for Ukraine’s Air Force.

According to Kristersson, the document is part of a long-term 10–15-year program that includes not only aircraft deliveries but also pilot training and the creation of a joint technical base for fleet maintenance.

During the signing ceremony, Zelenskyy emphasized that the agreement marks a new stage in relations between Kyiv and Stockholm.

“Today, we are undoubtedly opening a new and very meaningful chapter in our relations — between Ukraine and Sweden, and more broadly, in Europe’s overall security relations. This is the first document between our countries that paves the way for Ukraine to acquire a strong fleet of Swedish-made Gripen combat aircraft. These are powerful aviation platforms capable of performing a wide range of missions. We expect that the future contract will allow us to receive at least 100 such aircraft,” Zelenskyy said.

He stressed that the decision to prioritize Gripen jets was made based on combat realities and the needs of Ukraine’s Air Force, for which speed, maneuverability, and effectiveness against Russia are key.

“If we look strategically at the air fleet, we see three platforms — Gripen, F, and Rafale. I don’t want to reveal all the details of our next steps, but for our army, Gripen is the priority. That’s why we chose them. It’s a matter of cost, maneuver, and operational use. We know who we are fighting against, and Gripens are among the best in the world,” he said.

The JAS 39 Gripen E is the latest modification of the Swedish fighter jet developed by Saab. It features a more powerful engine, extended flight range, and upgraded radar and electronic systems, making it one of the most advanced combat aircraft in its class.

• On October 22, it was reported that Ulf Kristersson and Volodymyr Zelenskyy planned to discuss Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and defense partnership issues during their meeting in Sweden.