Following the end of the conflict with Russia, Sweden is willing to sell advanced Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson told Breaking Defense.
Kyiv’s Interest in Gripen System
Jonson stated that Ukraine has expressed interest in the Gripen system, particularly the new Gripen E version operated by Sweden and Brazil, making a future sale a possibility. He emphasized that such a deal would be a long-term endeavor focused on building a common air force capability.
Sale Dependent on War’s End
Jonson made it clear that any potential acquisition hinges on the resolution of the Ukraine war and stressed that any agreement would require long-term development.
Rebuilding the Ukrainian Air Force
Western nations have pledged to support the reconstruction of the Ukrainian Air Force after the conflict with Russia concludes.
Swedish Experience in Building Air Forces
Jonson highlighted Sweden’s extensive experience in collaborating with other countries to build their air forces, citing successful partnerships with the Czech Republic, Hungary, Thailand, and Brazil.
Previous Gripen Lobbying Unsuccessful
Ukraine has long sought deliveries of older Gripen C/D combat aircraft, but previous efforts have been unsuccessful. NATO allies requested that Sweden hold back on sending them so that Kyiv could focus on flying F-16 jets and to avoid overburdening pilots with multiple aircraft types.
Potential Donation of Gripen C/D Aircraft
While a few French Mirage jets have been transferred, Sweden approved the donation of Gripen spare parts valued at 2.3 billion SEK ($214 million) in September 2024. Jonson stated that Sweden remains open to discussing gifting Gripen C/D aircraft and has discussed the matter with his Ukrainian counterpart.
Gripen E for Ukrainian Needs
Saab CEO Micael Johansson suggested sending Gripen E aircraft to Kyiv „over time,” while Saab head of media relations Mattias Rådström affirmed that Saab would fully support Sweden in such an endeavor and believes that the Gripen E is ideally suited to meet Ukrainian needs.
Sweden and Poland Strengthen Military Cooperation
Separately, Jonson signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Polish Minister of Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz at MSPO, establishing closer bilateral military technical cooperation. The agreement encompasses defense materiel, development, innovation, and the defense industry.
Implementing Umbrella Agreement
Jonson said that the pact aligns with a broader „umbrella agreement” between Stockholm and Warsaw, with the first NATO-enhanced air policing deployment by Swedish Air Force Gripens to Poland serving as a notable example of successful renewed ties.
Saab Offers A26 Submarine Design to Poland
Regarding Poland’s Orka submarine program, Jonson noted that Sweden has presented a „competitive and attractive” offer of the Saab Kockums A26 design, but the decision rests with Poland.
Saab and PGZ Group Explore Collaboration
Saab and Poland’s largest defense contractor PGZ Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore potential cooperation on defense solutions for multi-domain operations.
Saab Launches Strategic Cooperation with WB Group
Saab also launched „strategic cooperation” with local firm WB Group to explore potential collaboration in areas including UAV systems, naval solutions, and border protection systems.
