All articles tagged with #gripen jets
Sweden and Ukraine have signed a letter of intent to potentially supply up to 150 Gripen E fighter jets to Kyiv over the next 10-15 years, with initial deliveries expected in 2026, as part of Ukraine's efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has initiated talks with Sweden to acquire Gripen jets, which experts believe could enhance Ukraine's ability to counter Russia's air defenses. The Gripen jets, specifically designed to combat advanced Russian fighter jets, have garnered praise for their electronic warfare capabilities and simplicity of maintenance. While the United States recently approved the delivery of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, experts argue that the Gripen jets may be a better fit for Ukrainian forces. Of the six countries that operate the Gripen, only Sweden and the Czech Republic have supported Ukraine, while others remain neutral or have refused to provide weapons.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has visited Sweden for the first time since Russia's invasion in 2022 and discussed the possibility of acquiring Gripen jets to enhance Ukraine's air defenses. The talks, described as preliminary, follow the approval for Denmark and the Netherlands to send F-16 fighters to Ukraine. Zelenskiy stated that the topic of Gripen jets would be central to his meetings with Swedish officials, and Ukrainian pilots have already begun training on the planes. Additionally, Ukraine and Sweden signed an agreement for Ukraine to begin producing Sweden's CV90 combat vehicle. Sweden has been providing military support to Ukraine, including weapons and ammunition, with a total aid value of $1.8 billion.
Ukrainian pilots will be able to undergo training on the Swedish-made Jas 39 Gripen fighter aircraft, according to Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson. Several experienced Ukrainian pilots will be able to undergo training on simulators and make test flights on the Jas 39 Gripen. However, Jonson said that the use of the Jas 39 Gripen in the war in Ukraine is not relevant, and the jets are needed for Sweden's own defense needs.