Ukraine to buy 20 Gripen fighters from Sweden, with 16 more gifted

Ukraine is set to acquire 20 Saab Gripen E/F multirole fighter jets from Sweden through purchase, with an additional 16 aircraft to be donated. The announcement was made by Swedish television on May 28.

Ukraine is acquiring a significant batch of advanced fighter aircraft from Sweden, according to a report by Swedish television on May 28. The deal involves the purchase of 20 Saab Gripen E/F multirole fighter jets, while an additional 16 aircraft will be provided to Ukraine as a gift.

The Gripen E/F is a modern, highly capable multirole fighter produced by Swedish defense company Saab. The aircraft is known for its versatility, advanced avionics, and relatively low operating costs compared to other Western fighters. Delivering such jets to Ukraine would represent a substantial boost to the country's air combat capabilities.

This development comes as Western nations continue to expand military support to Ukraine. Sweden, which joined NATO in March 2024, has been steadily increasing its contributions to Ukraine's defense. The addition of Gripen jets, combined with F-16s already promised by other allies, could significantly reshape Ukraine's air force in the coming years.