Ukraine Expects First Swedish Gripen Fighter Jets In 2026

Ukraine expects to receive the first Swedish-built JAS-39 Gripen fighter jets in 2026, with Kyiv indicating it is counting on up to 150 aircraft.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on his official social media account that the transfer of Gripen fighters would form part of Ukraine’s long-term security guarantees. “We are counting on 150 such aircraft for Ukraine, and the first ones should arrive next year. The Gripen fighter jets for Ukraine are part of our security guarantees. Such an Air Force will be able to protect our skies 100 percent,” he stated.

A letter of intent signed on October 22 between Ukraine and Sweden opened the path to a potential contract. Kyiv has shown interest in purchasing 100 to 150 of the latest Gripen E variant, although initial deliveries could include older C/D models.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described the agreement as the start of a lengthy effort. He said the new Gripen E production “is just beginning” and that deliveries could start in about three years. “You can’t deliver all 150 aircraft in one batch. So this is a long-term process,” he noted.

Industry data indicates Saab can manufacture roughly 20 to 30 aircraft annually, making it unlikely that newly built Gripen E jets will reach Ukraine in 2026. The initial handover will likely involve older Gripen C/D aircraft currently in Swedish service.

Gripen jets have been evaluated by Ukrainian pilots since 2023. Partners within the aviation coalition have previously advised Sweden to delay transfers while Ukraine integrates F-16 and Mirage fighters.

In September 2024, Sweden allocated additional funds to the Gripen E program, preserving components for C/D aircraft that could later be provided to Kyiv. Swedish reports suggest the country currently has “just over 10 Gripen aircraft” available for transfer.