Sweden has officially announced the transfer of 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine and the future sale of 22 additional new aircraft. The first deliveries of the combat jets are expected in 2027.
This was announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on May 28.
The sides signed a declaration on deepening defense cooperation at the Uppsala air base. The document became a continuation of the previous letter of intent signed by Ukraine and Sweden during Zelenskyy’s previous visit.
According to Kristersson, Sweden will transfer 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine free of charge.
“Ukraine has clearly identified Gripen as its choice and priority for long-term air defense. And Ukraine would like to purchase the newest model — Gripen E/F. Ukraine will purchase 22 Gripen E-series models. Negotiations are ongoing and we will complete them and be able to provide these aircraft by 2030,” the Swedish prime minister said.
Kristersson said deliveries of the Gripen jets are expected to begin in 2027. At the same time, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine hopes to receive the first aircraft earlier.
“We expect to receive the first opportunities, the first Gipen in the next ten months. We will do everything possible on our part. I think that in December-January we will receive the first Gipen with our Ukrainian pilots,” the president said.
It is also reported that Sweden plans to order additional Gripen E aircraft for its own needs to replace the C/D fighter jets that will be transferred to Ukraine.
