Kyiv hopes Sweden will begin Gripen deliveries soon
Ukraine expects Sweden to deliver Gripen fighter jets soon, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Oct. 16 after meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope that Sweden would soon start delivering Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine following a meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on October 16. Zelenskyy highlighted the need for enhanced air defense capabilities to counter ongoing attacks, with a focus on strengthening Ukraine's air defense systems.
He expressed gratitude for the agreement on Gripen fighter jets with Sweden, stating that the aircraft will complement Ukraine's existing F-16 fleet, particularly in countering jet-powered Shahed drones. The defense agreement signed by Zelenskyy and Kristersson on May 28 allows Ukraine to purchase up to 20 Swedish Gripen E/F fighter jets.
Additionally, as part of Sweden's military aid to Ukraine, 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets will be provided free of charge. Zelenskyy anticipates the arrival of the first Swedish aircraft within the next 10 months, likely early 2027. Deputy head of the Office of the President, Pavlo Palisa, stated that the introduction of JAS 39 Gripen jets would significantly alter the aerial combat situation due to their advanced weaponry.
These aircraft are projected to be equipped with long-range Meteor air-to-air missiles, enabling Ukrainian defense forces to engage Russian aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones from unprecedented distances.
Written by urgent.news from New Voice of Ukraine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
