Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson have signed a letter of intent to initiate a significant purchase of between 100 to 150 Gripen E fighter jets from Swedish defense manufacturer Saab. The agreement was formalized during a press conference held at Saab’s factory in Linköping, Sweden, on October 16, 2023. This marks the beginning of a long-term industrial partnership between the two nations, primarily aimed at enhancing air defense capabilities.
During the announcement, Kristersson emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “This is the beginning of a long journey, but it takes us one step closer to a major export deal for Saab and Sweden and Ukraine.” Sweden has been a valuable ally to Ukraine, having previously provided substantial military support that includes armored vehicles, artillery, and air defense systems, as well as the ASC 890 radar reconnaissance aircraft, known globally as Saab Erieye. These assets enhance the effectiveness of the F-16s currently deployed by Ukraine in the ongoing conflict.
The latest agreement signifies a shift from immediate military aid to a focus on a more comprehensive “major defense industrial deal.” The Gripen E, the newest model recently integrated into the Swedish Air Force, will allow Ukraine to join a growing network of users benefiting from this advanced air power system. Kristersson noted, “It is a clear and mutual statement of intent — the beginning of a journey over 10-15 years.”
Production of the Gripen E is currently increasing, with initial deliveries to Ukraine anticipated within three years. The scale of this deal necessitates a gradual delivery process, given the significant financial investment required. Both nations are now collaborating with other partners to investigate financing options to support Ukraine’s broader defense strategy. Kristersson remarked, “A strong Ukraine with a strong defense is the best long-term protection – not just for Ukraine, but for all of Europe. Control of airspace is crucial.”
As discussions progress, a potential next step could occur during the upcoming European Council meeting in Brussels, where frozen Russian assets will be addressed. Both leaders are scheduled to attend this meeting. Long-term financing for reconstruction and defense remains essential, particularly in light of ongoing conflict. Sweden has also highlighted the reciprocal benefits of this partnership, stating, “We learn a lot from Ukraine.”
While immediate deliveries of Gripen jets from Sweden’s surplus inventory remain uncertain, Kristersson has not ruled out the possibility. He acknowledged the importance of the ASC 890 radar surveillance system, asserting that it currently provides the best command capability for Ukraine’s F-16s. “That assessment can change, but right now we are focused on the radar reconnaissance aircraft. First, we jointly investigate financing options,” he explained.
Zelenskyy expressed optimism about the timeline for acquiring the Gripens, indicating that Ukraine hopes to receive some jets as early as 2026. He stated on social media platform X, “We consider the JAS 39 Gripen aircraft to be one of the most effective elements of this effort and count on the first deliveries of Gripens already in 2026.” Ukrainian pilots have already traveled to Sweden to test the Gripen, which boasts advanced capabilities including electronic warfare, a more powerful engine, and enhanced weapons capacity.
The concept of supplying Gripen jets to Ukraine has been under consideration for over a year but was temporarily paused to prioritize the integration of US-made F-16 fighters, which Ukraine began deploying in the summer of 2023. If the deal proceeds as planned, it promises significant advancements for Ukraine’s air force and bolsters the Swedish defense industry, contributing to a more robust European response to Russian aggression.
Kristersson concluded, “The free world must increase political and economic pressure on Putin to stop this brutal war.” Since the start of the Russian invasion in 2022, Sweden’s military aid to Ukraine has exceeded 90 billion kronor (approximately $8.44 billion). Recently, the Swedish government proposed an additional 31.5 billion kronor in its 2026 budget bill, aiming to increase military support to 40 billion kronor annually for both 2026 and 2027.
