Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson have signed a letter of intent that could lead to the purchase of between 100 and 150 Gripen E fighter jets from Swedish defense manufacturer Saab. This agreement, unveiled during a press conference at Saab’s facility in Linköping, represents the foundation of a long-term industrial partnership focused on enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
During the announcement, Prime Minister Kristersson emphasized the significance of this agreement, stating, “This is the beginning of a long journey, but it takes us one step closer to a major export deal for Saab and Sweden and Ukraine.” This partnership follows Sweden’s previous military assistance to Ukraine, which includes armored vehicles, artillery, and the ASC 890 radar reconnaissance aircraft, also known as Saab Erieye. These contributions have bolstered the operational capabilities of the F-16s currently used by Ukraine in its ongoing conflict.
The agreement marks a shift towards a more strategic collaboration, moving beyond immediate donations to a potential long-term defense industrial deal involving the Gripen E. This latest model was recently inducted into the Swedish Air Force, and Ukraine aims to integrate it into its military operations. Kristersson referred to this as a mutual statement of intent, indicating a journey that could span 10 to 15 years.
Details of the Gripen E Acquisition
Production of the Gripen E is set to increase, with initial deliveries to Ukraine anticipated in about three years. The phased delivery approach reflects the substantial financial commitments required for such a significant acquisition. Both nations are now exploring financing options to facilitate Ukraine’s broader defense strategy.
“A strong Ukraine with a strong defense is the best long-term protection – not just for Ukraine, but for all of Europe. Control of airspace is crucial,” Kristersson articulated. This perspective highlights the broader implications of Ukraine’s defense enhancements for regional security.
As the European Council convenes in Brussels to discuss frozen Russian assets, both leaders will be present, potentially paving the way for future discussions on defense financing. Following the war, long-term funding will be essential for Ukraine’s reconstruction and defense, which is a prerequisite for the Gripen deal moving forward.
Kristersson acknowledged the reciprocal benefits of this partnership, stating, “We learn a lot from Ukraine.” While the immediate question of surplus Gripen deliveries remains open, Kristersson noted that the focus is currently on the radar reconnaissance aircraft, which provide optimal command capabilities for Ukraine’s existing F-16s.
Zelenskyy expressed optimism regarding the timeline for Gripen deliveries, suggesting that some could arrive as early as 2026. He mentioned on social media platform X, “We consider the JAS 39 Gripen aircraft to be one of the most effective elements of this effort and count on the first deliveries of Gripens already in 2026.” Ukrainian pilots have already visited Sweden for testing the Gripen, which promises a range of advanced features, including electronic warfare capabilities and enhanced weapons systems.
The idea of supplying Gripen jets to Ukraine has been under consideration for over a year but was temporarily shelved to allow Ukraine to prioritize the integration of U.S.-made F-16 fighters, which it began deploying in the summer of 2023. Should the Gripen deal proceed as planned, it could provide substantial opportunities for both Ukraine’s air force and Sweden’s defense industry, reinforcing European solidarity against Russian aggression.
In total, Sweden’s military aid to Ukraine has reached 90 billion kronor (approximately $8.44 billion) since the onset of the war in 2022. Just a month prior, the Swedish government proposed an additional 31.5 billion kronor in its 2026 budget, raising the funding framework to 40 billion kronor per year for both 2026 and 2027, ensuring continued robust support for Ukraine.
As the situation evolves, the collaboration between Sweden and Ukraine signifies a pivotal development in the defense landscape of Europe, aiming to bolster air power and enhance security in the region.