In a historic move that could reshape Europe’s defence landscape, new NATO member Sweden has agreed in principle to sell up to 150 Gripen-E fighter jets to Ukraine, marking the first time a major alliance member has proposed transferring such a large fleet of modern aircraft to Kyiv.
The agreement, signed on Wednesday by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, is a letter of understanding, meaning the final cost, delivery timeline, and specific terms are still being negotiated. However, both leaders described the deal as a major step forward in strengthening European security and Ukraine’s air power against ongoing Russian aggression.
“We are opening a new and meaningful chapter in relations between Ukraine and Sweden, and for the security of all Europe,” Zelensky said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“These are powerful aircraft capable of performing a wide range of missions,” he added.
Prime Minister Kristersson echoed that sentiment, calling the partnership “a strategic boost” for both nations.
Sweden’s decision comes less than two years after its formal entry into NATO in 2024, alongside its Nordic neighbour Finland. The pair abandoned decades of military non-alignment following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a war that has since accelerated European rearmament and defence cooperation.
Ukraine’s air force has long struggled to compete with Russia’s technologically superior fleet. Its pilots have relied heavily on Soviet-era aircraft, and while Western allies have pledged F-16s and Mirage 2000s, deliveries remain limited. The Gripen-E, however, offers a more adaptable and durable option, one that analysts say could give Ukraine a tactical edge.
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen-E, built by Swedish manufacturer Saab AB, has earned a reputation as one of the world’s most versatile and cost-efficient multirole fighters. The latest E variant features next-generation radar, advanced sensors, improved communication systems, and embedded AI-assisted avionics. Saab markets it as “a game changer,” capable of coordinating missile strikes across an entire squadron.
Notably, the aircraft can take off from short, makeshift runways, including highways and dirt strips, a critical advantage for Ukraine, where airbases remain frequent targets of Russian strikes. Each Gripen-E carries ten hardpoints for air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, making it suitable for both defence and strike operations.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, several of its pilots have already trained on earlier Gripen variants and simulators, potentially allowing for quicker deployment once aircraft deliveries begin. Zelensky said he hopes Ukraine could start operating the jets as early as next year, although experts suggest full delivery could take up to three years.
If finalised, the deal would make Ukraine the largest Gripen operator in the world, surpassing even Sweden’s own air force. Other countries currently flying Gripens include Brazil, Hungary, the Czech Republic, South Africa, and Thailand.
The announcement follows President Zelensky’s recent request for Tomahawk cruise missiles from the United States, a proposal declined by President Donald Trump, who cited the lengthy training period required to operate them.
With the Gripen deal now in motion, Ukraine’s ambitions for air superiority may soon take a major leap forward, one that could redefine the balance of power across Europe’s skies.