Ukraine and Sweden have signed a memorandum of intent on the potential purchase of 100 to 150 new JAS 39 Gripen E fighters. The document was signed during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Sweden.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister of Sweden Ulf Kristersson approved an agreement that opens up the possibility of purchasing up to 150 JAS 39 Gripen E multi-role fighters for the Ukrainian Air Force.
According to Kristersson, this is part of a long-term program for 10-15 years, which includes not only the supply of aircraft, but also the training of Ukrainian pilots and the creation of a joint infrastructure for their maintenance.
During the signing, Zelenskyy stressed that the agreement marks a new stage in relations between Ukraine and Sweden:
“Today we are certainly opening a new and very meaningful page in our relations – relations between Ukraine and Sweden, and even more so – in security relations in Europe in general. We have the first document between our countries, which paves the way for Ukraine to receive a serious fleet of Swedish-made Gripen combat aircraft. These are strong aviation platforms that allow us to perform a wide range of tasks. We expect that the future contract will allow us to receive at least 100 such aircraft”.
The President of Ukraine noted that the choice in favor of Gripen is determined by combat realities and the needs of the Ukrainian Air Force, where speed, maneuverability and efficiency in confrontation with Russia are important.
“If we look strategically at the air fleet, we see three platforms – Gripen, F and Rafale. I don’t want to reveal all the details of our steps, but for our army Gripen – is a priority. That’s why we chose them. It’s a question of funds, maneuver, how to use it. We understand who we are fighting, and Gripen – is one of the best in the world”, Zelensky added.
The JAS 39 Gripen E is the latest version of the Swedish multi-role fighter from Saab; it has a more powerful engine, longer range, and updated radar and electronic systems, making it one of the most modern platforms in its class.
