Deliveries of new-build jets for Kyiv will start in 2029.
Sweden and Ukraine have finalised a deal that will lead to Kyiv fielding a first batch of Saab Gripen C/D fighters from early next year, before it subsequently also introduces the airframer’s latest E-model version.
Under a contract signed by the airframer and Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) on 30 June, Saab will deliver 16 new-build Gripen Es to Ukraine between 2029 and 2030. The company values the deal at roughly SKr24.6 billion ($2.5 billion).
With that agreement now in place, the FMV says it “can continue preparations for the donation of [16 Swedish air force] JAS 39 C/D aircraft, which is included in the government’s support package 22”.
“The goal is to have an agreement in place this autumn to be able to deliver the aircraft in early 2027,” it adds.
“This will be an important step in quickly strengthening Ukraine’s air force and preparing for the introduction of the new Gripen E,” says FMV director general Mikael Granholm.
“As a first step, we’ll receive 16 Gripen C/D jets in early 2027 as military aid, while today’s deal for the E models secures our long-term air superiority,” Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov says.
“These jets will significantly boost our capabilities against drones, cruise missiles, and enemy aviation,” he adds. “Training is already under way.”
“The aircraft will come with a package of related equipment, technical assistance, and support,” says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. “I thank Sweden for the meaningful partnership and for the consistent support since the start of Russia’s invasion,” he adds. “Together, we are working for the security of Ukraine and of all Europe.”
After discussions last month, it was suggested that Kyiv could take 16 secondhand Gripen C/Ds and up to 20 E/F-model examples; the new two-seat version appears to have been excluded from its planning at this stage.
“I am deeply proud that Sweden and Saab can now enable the provision of Gripen E to Ukraine, bringing a world-class fighter that will transform the Ukrainian air force’s capability,” says Saab chief executive Micael Johansson.
“This will significantly strengthen Ukraine’s air defence and help ensure the nation can protect its people and safeguard its future,” he adds.
Saab describes its single-engined jet as “an advanced and cost-effective fighter that is easy to operate and maintain”, including from “short stretches, temporary runways or roads, supporting dispersed operations”.
Introduction of the Swedish-built fighter will add to a re-equipment process which has already seen the Ukrainian air force introduce donated Lockheed Martin F-16A/Bs and Dassault Aviation Mirage 2000-5 combat aircraft.
During a visit to Saab’s Linkoping production site last October, Zelensky announced that Ukraine was interested in acquiring as many as an eventual 100-150 of the fighters.
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