Ukraine to purchase up to 150 state-of-art Gripen fighter jets from Sweden for AFU
On October 22, Ukraine and Sweden signed a letter of intent on the purchase of 120 to 150 new-generation JAS 39 Gripen E fighter jets.
As reported by Censor.NET, the signing took place during a meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
What the agreement envisions
Kristersson emphasized that the deal does not concern immediate deliveries but rather a long-term program lasting 10–15 years.
"The agreement is not about deliveries right now. It concerns 120–150 Gripen fighters of the E series, which is only just entering production. This will enable the creation of a very powerful Ukrainian Air Force. It’s the beginning of a long journey — 10 to 15 years," he explained.
Zelenskyy also commented on the importance of acquiring Gripen jets for Ukraine’s Air Force.
"We are opening a new and very meaningful chapter in the relations between Ukraine and Sweden. Today we have the first document paving the way for Ukraine to receive a very serious fleet of Gripen fighter jets. These are outstanding aircraft, powerful aviation platforms capable of performing a wide range of missions," the President said.
Reference
The JAS 39 Gripen E is the latest version of the Swedish multirole fighter developed by Saab. The model features a more powerful engine, greater range, and significantly upgraded radar and avionics compared to earlier versions.
