Sweden to donate 16 Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine, with 20 more to be purchased

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has announced that 16 used Gripen fighter jets are to be sent to Ukraine, and there are plans to purchase 20 new aircraft of the same model.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced this important step in the long-term strengthening of Ukraine's air defence through the transfer of Gripen aircraft.

"Ukraine has clearly identified the Gripen aircraft as a priority option for its air force in the long term and intends to purchase the newest version, the Gripen E.

Negotiations are ongoing, and we will be able to transfer these aircraft by 2030," Kristersson said at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the city of Uppsala.

Kristersson also announced that Sweden will support Ukraine by donating aircraft that have already been in use.

"We are transferring 16 of these Gripen C/D aircraft," he added.

Delivery will take place in early 2027, Kristersson added.

"This will strengthen Ukraine's air defence and Europe's air defence," he concluded.

In October 2025, Sweden's prime minister announced the signing of a letter of intent with Ukraine regarding the possible sale of 100-150 Gripen E fighter jets.

Zelenskyy said the first Gripens from Sweden could arrive in 2026.