Sweden orders 16 Gripen E aircraft for Ukraine

Sweden has ordered 16 Saab JAS 39 Gripen E fighter aircraft for Ukraine, contracting the production through the Swedish State Agency for Defense Procurement (FMV). The deal is valued at about 2.7 billion euros and covers spare parts, software, logistical support and armament. While Saab said it has received the order from the Swedish state, the article notes it has not been confirmed whether Kyiv signed a separate acquisition contract with FMV. Based on existing arrangements, Ukraine is expected to receive one used Gripen C/D aircraft for each of the 16 new Gripen E jets. Deliveries of the new Gripen E start in 2029 and end in 2030, whereas used Gripen C/D aircraft could arrive as early as the first half of 2027. Saab’s minister Pål Jonsson said the Gripen is adapted for wartime conditions and that the UK partially finances the project.