Sweden to Transfer Gripen Fighter Jets to Ukraine

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced on May 28 that Sweden will transfer 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine free of charge.

The announcement was made during a joint briefing at Uppsala Air Base, where President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Kristersson signed a declaration on deepening defense cooperation. A preliminary letter of intent had previously been signed during Zelensky’s earlier visit to Sweden.

Key Details of the Transfer

Sweden will provide 16 JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine at no cost. In addition, Ukraine will purchase 22 new Gripen E fighter jets, with deliveries expected by 2030.

• Negotiations on the new aircraft are ongoing and expected to be completed by 2030.
• Deliveries of the Gripens will begin in 2027, according to Kristersson.
• President Zelensky stated Ukraine hopes to receive the first aircraft within the next 10 months.

The Gripen system includes weapons packages with missiles having a range exceeding 200 kilometers. Zelensky also expressed willingness to purchase all 150 aircraft in the future.

Strategic Context

The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is designed specifically for operations against Soviet/Russian threats. Key capabilities include short runway operations and low operational costs, making it well-suited for Ukraine's defense needs.

Kristersson noted that Soviet-era aircraft currently used by Ukraine can assist with reconnaissance, but Gripens are the best long-term option. Zelensky said the aircraft will help push Russian aircraft farther away, preventing the use of guided aerial bombs.

Cost and Production

The flyaway cost of a JAS 39E is approximately $85 million; total cost per aircraft including service is around $135 million.

• Deliveries of the first Swedish-produced JAS 39E to the Swedish Air Force began in October 2025, with 60 aircraft planned.
• Colombia, Thailand, and Brazil have also ordered Gripens.
• Saab plans annual output of 20–36 JAS 39E aircraft.