Ukraine has signed a major contract with Swedish manufacturer Saab to acquire 16 Gripen-E fighter jets, marking a significant boost to its aerial combat capabilities. The agreement, valued at approximately $2.54 billion, includes delivery of the aircraft between 2029 and 2039, alongside spare parts and related equipment.
This deal complements an earlier arrangement for Ukraine to receive 16 older Gripen C/D jets beginning in 2027, which will further reinforce its air fleet. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the contract and highlighted ongoing cooperation with Sweden, including technical assistance and support packages accompanying the jets.
The Gripen purchase follows a letter of intent from late 2025 for a potential acquisition of up to 100 Gripen-E/F aircraft, indicating the current 16 jets may represent the initial phase of a larger procurement plan. Discussions between the two nations also cover broader defense collaboration on anti-ballistic missile systems and drone technology.
Sweden’s move marks a departure from its previous reluctance to supply advanced fighter jets to Ukraine, contrasting with other NATO members that have handed over older F-16s and Mirage fighters. The Gripen’s inclusion of advanced armaments such as IRIS-T, AMRAAM, and METEOR air-to-air missiles further underscores the strategic depth of the deal.
Meanwhile, Poland has delayed transferring its MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine amid disputes over drone technology cooperation. This withholding disrupts another potential source of Ukrainian air power reinforcement, highlighting the complexities of military aid even among allied nations.
The Swedish-Ukrainian agreement signals a strengthening of Kyiv’s combat aviation capacity within a broader geopolitical context where shifting alliances and technological concerns impact the flow of arms and defense support.