During an official visit to Sweden, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine expects to receive the first multipurpose fighters JAS 39 Gripen as early as 2026. This was announced by the head of state after a meeting with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and a visit to the Saab facility in Linköping, where these aircraft are produced.
According to Zelensky, the main topic of the negotiations was strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities. The President emphasized that Kyiv considers Gripen one of the most effective elements of its future defense system:
«We greatly value our relations with Sweden and all manifestations of support for the Ukrainian people. Today, one of the main issues is strengthening Ukraine’s defense capability», — said the president.
What topics did Zelensky and Prime Minister Kristersson discuss
In addition to aviation topics, they also discussed:
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strengthening the Ukrainian air defense;
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the PURL program;
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protecting energy infrastructure targeted by Russia;
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preparation for the European Council meeting in Brussels;
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the meeting of the «coalition of the willing» in London.
How many Gripen fighters will be delivered to Ukraine
Zelensky and Kristersson signed a letter of intent for cooperation in the development of air capabilities. The document paves the way for Ukraine's participation in the Saab program and a potential acquisition of 100–150 Gripen E fighters in the future.
The President thanked the Swedish government for supporting Ukraine in the war against Russia and for systematically strengthening its defense potential. According to him, Gripen is expected to be part of the long-term strategy for updating Ukraine's Air Force. These aircraft are considered among the most maneuverable in the world, adapted to short runways and capable of operating under limited infrastructure conditions.
This is also a historic moment for Sweden: the country effectively becomes one of Ukraine’s key allies in the field of aviation security. The Gripen, developed by Saab, has long been regarded as a competitor to the F-16, which are also set to be supplied to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The first deliveries of these aircraft are expected to begin in 2026, and before that, Ukraine will prepare pilots and technical personnel for their maintenance.
Earlier, we reported that Sweden plans to sell 120 JAS 39 Gripen E fighters - the latest version of its combat aircraft.