Sweden plans to start delivering Gripen fighters to Ukraine within three years: an ambitious step in supporting Ukraine’s defense
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson made a significant statement regarding the possibility of supplying Ukraine with modern Gripen fighters within three years.
He emphasized that this outlook has real prospects thanks to the ongoing long-term production and financing processes already initiated in Sweden.
During a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Linköping, Kristersson highlighted that the initial stage involves a thorough review of all available funding options, including the potential use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s defense needs.
“We are talking about a next-generation aircraft recently introduced in Sweden.
Production is just beginning, and, considering all circumstances, a practical delivery timeline is about three years,” Kristersson stated.
He also pointed out that delivering a large batch of 150 aircraft immediately is unrealistic, given the lengthy timeframe required for such an undertaking.
The prime minister summarized that the complete cycle of producing and supplying 100 to 150 fighters could take from 10 to 15 years, yet Sweden is already demonstrating political and military support for Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasized the importance of a political decision to realize such projects and expressed readiness to discuss not only modern aircraft but also alternative weapon options and pilot training.
The key, according to Zelensky, is obtaining political backing to allow Ukraine to purchase Gripen fighters and establish a modern air force.
Additionally, during his visit to Sweden, Zelensky discussed joint drone production with the Swedish company Saab, which represents another crucial step toward strengthening Ukraine’s military capabilities.