Zelenskyy says Ukraine signs historic deal with Sweden for Gripen fighter jets

Ukraine and Sweden have signed an agreement on the acquisition of Swedish Gripen fighter jets, with the first 16 Gripen C/D aircraft expected to enter service with the Ukrainian Air Force in early 2027, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Tuesday.

"Together with Sweden, we are continuing to strengthen Ukraine's combat aviation. Today, our countries signed an agreement on the acquisition of 16 Gripen E fighter jets. It is important that the aircraft will be accompanied by the necessary equipment, technical assistance and support package," Zelenskyy said.

Ukraine's Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said preparatory work on the programme had been completed jointly by the Ukrainian and Swedish defence ministries and Sweden's Defence Materiel Administration (FMV).

He added that the cooperation includes both immediate and long-term elements. The initial delivery of 16 Gripen C/D aircraft will support pilot and technician training, infrastructure development and the aircraft's integration into the Ukrainian Air Force, while a further 16 Gripen E fighters, financed by the European Union with support from the United Kingdom, are scheduled to begin arriving in early 2029.

The Minister also noted that Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel are already undergoing training in Sweden.