Zelensky Announces Acquisition of Swedish Gripen Fighters to Bolster Ukraine’s Air Defense by 2026
This week, Ukrainian authorities signed a significant agreement with Sweden to purchase over one hundred modern JAS Gripen fighters.
This decision marks a crucial step in strengthening the country’s defense capabilities, especially amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced via his official Telegram channel that Ukraine plans to acquire approximately 150 of these combat aircraft, with the first deliveries expected in 2026.
According to him, concluding such an agreement is a historic milestone for Ukraine and part of a broader strategy to ensure national security.
Zelensky emphasized that the deal will usher in a new phase in developing a powerful aviation component of Ukraine’s armed forces, with the contract value estimated at between 8 and 12 billion dollars.
Funding is reportedly planned through frozen Russian assets.
The Ukrainian leader added that the goal is to equip Ukraine with modern, effective air defense systems capable of providing complete protection of its skies.
This is the most extensive military-aviation deal in Ukraine’s history and will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force.
Zelensky expressed gratitude to Swedish partners and expressed hope that this agreement will help Ukraine strengthen its security and achieve a new level in countering aggression.