Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson have signed a letter of intent, paving the way for Kyiv to potentially purchase 100 to 150 Gripen E fighter jets from Swedish defense firm Saab, Breaking Defense reports.
Long-Term Industrial Partnership
The agreement, announced at a press conference at Saab’s factory in Linköping, signifies the beginning of a long-term industrial partnership between Sweden and Ukraine, focusing on air defense. Kristersson emphasized that this marks a step closer to a major export deal for Saab, Sweden, and Ukraine.
Previous Swedish Military Aid
Sweden has already provided extensive military aid to Ukraine, including armored vehicles, artillery, air defense systems, and the Saab Erieye ASC 890 radar reconnaissance aircraft. These aircraft enhance the capabilities of the donated F-16s currently in use in the war.
Focus on Long-Term Defense
However, the current agreement is not about immediate donations. Instead, it focuses on a longer-term „major defense industrial deal” involving the Gripen E, the latest model recently introduced into the Swedish Air Force. Kristersson envisions Ukraine joining a „growing family” of users of this unique and flexible air power system.
Statement of Intent
Kristersson emphasized that this is a clear and mutual statement of intent—the beginning of a journey over 10-15 years. Production of the Gripen E is now ramping up, with initial deliveries to Ukraine potentially occurring in approximately three years. Deliveries would occur gradually over a long period due to the significant sums involved.
Exploring Financing Options
The parties are now collaborating with other partners to explore financing options for Ukraine’s broader defense. Kristersson stressed that a strong Ukraine with a strong defense is the best long-term protection, not just for Ukraine but for all of Europe, and that control of airspace is crucial.
Frozen Russian Assets
A next step could be taken at the European Council in Brussels, where frozen Russian assets will be discussed. Long-term financing for reconstruction and defense will be necessary even after the war, making it a prerequisite for the deal. Sweden also highlights mutual benefits, stating that they learn a lot from Ukraine.
Potential for Immediate Gripen Deliveries
The question of immediate Gripen deliveries from Swedish surplus remains open. Kristersson stated that they have not ruled out the possibility of Gripen deliveries in the short term, but the decision to deliver the ASC 890 airborne radar surveillance system still stands, as it provides the best command capability for Ukraine’s F-16s.
Prime Minister’s Clarification
Kristersson clarified that nothing is finalized, emphasizing that this is a very clear political and industrial statement of intent and the beginning of a major project.
Ukraine’s Timeline
Zelenskyy indicated Ukraine hopes to see some Gripens as early as next year, stating on X that they consider the JAS 39 Gripen aircraft to be one of the most effective elements of this effort and are counting on the first deliveries in 2026.
Gripen’s Capabilities
Ukrainian pilots have tested the Gripen, which represents a new-generation upgrade with higher-end capabilities, including electronic warfare, a more powerful engine, and increased weapons capacity. Supplying Gripen jets to Ukraine has been under consideration for the last year but was paused to allow Kyiv to prioritize integrating US-made F-16 fighters.
Opportunities for Ukraine, Sweden, and Europe
The deal, should it proceed as planned, promises huge opportunities for Ukraine’s air force, the Swedish defense industry, and a stronger Europe against Russian aggression. Kristersson concluded that the free world must increase political and economic pressure on Putin to stop the brutal war.
Sweden’s Military Aid
Sweden’s military aid to Ukraine has reached 90 billion kronor ($8.44 billion) since the 2022 invasion.
