Ukraine may receive Gripen fighter jets: what is known about Sweden’s decision
28 May 04:35
Sweden may announce the transfer of JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine. This was reported by the Swedish news site Aftonbladet, according to "Komersant Ukrainian"
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson is expected to announce the decision during a visit to the Uppland Air Base in Uppsala.
The deal involves several older Gripen C/D models, which Ukraine has been seeking to acquire more quickly.
At the same time, according to Swedish media reports, negotiations are set to begin regarding the future sale of newer Gripen E fighters to Ukraine. Ukraine could finance these purchases through EU credit financing.
Ukraine could purchase up to 100–150 Gripen aircraft
Last year, Ukraine and Sweden signed a letter of intent regarding cooperation in the field of aviation capabilities. The Swedish government stated at the time that the document could be a step toward a potential large-scale export deal for 100–150 Gripen fighter jets to build up new capabilities for the Ukrainian Air Force.
In May 2026, Reuters reported that negotiations between Ukraine and Sweden regarding the Gripen deal were progressing, and the contract could be finalized within a few months. There was also discussion of the possibility of a faster transfer of older models—through a loan, sale, or donation.
Why the Gripen is important for Ukraine
The JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets were developed by the Swedish company Saab and are considered one of the most practical options for countries in need of flexible combat aviation. One of the advantages of these aircraft is their ability to operate not only from traditional air bases but also from short runways and prepared sections of roads.
This feature could be particularly important for Ukraine, where aviation infrastructure is under constant threat of Russian strikes. The Gripen is also known for its relatively quick maintenance and its ability to carry out missions against both air and ground targets.
According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, Ukraine and Sweden discussed the process of providing Gripen aircraft, strengthening aviation and air defense capabilities, as well as joint defense projects in May.
Watch us on YouTube: important topics – without censorship
Gripen C/D and Gripen E: What’s the Difference
According to Swedish media reports, Ukraine may receive Gripen C/D aircraft sooner. These are older variants that are already in service and could potentially be transferred more quickly.
In contrast, the Gripen E is a newer version of the fighter jet with more modern systems. According to media reports, negotiations regarding the future sale of this specific model to Ukraine are set to begin.
As early as 2025, the Swedish government discussed a potential large-scale export deal specifically in the context of strengthening Ukrainian aviation and creating a “very strong Ukrainian air force.”
How Ukraine can pay for the aircraft
According to Swedish media reports, Ukraine could pay for the more modern Gripen E aircraft using EU loans. The reports also note that the financial prospects for such a deal have improved after Hungary lifted its veto on a large EU loan package for Ukraine.
Reuters previously reported that Ukraine has a financial plan for the Gripen deal, and Sweden is considering various support mechanisms—specifically within the framework of the aid budget for Ukraine.
Why the Gripen deal has been under discussion for years
The idea of transferring Swedish fighter jets to Ukraine has been under discussion for a long time. In 2024, Sweden temporarily put the Gripen issue on hold at the request of its partners to focus on introducing the F-16 system to Ukraine. At the time, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson explained that allies had asked to postpone the Gripen deal so as not to complicate the parallel integration of different types of fighter jets.
After that, the Gripen issue returned to the agenda in 2025–2026. Ukraine and Sweden signed a letter of intent, and Ukrainian officials have repeatedly emphasized that the Gripen could become an important element in strengthening Ukraine’s air force.
Read us on Telegram: important topics – without censorship
