Sweden Approves Transfer of Gripen Fighter Jets to Ukraine

Sweden’s Prime Minister announced that in a continued show of military support for Ukraine in its war against Russia, the country will provide Kyiv with several Saab JAS 39 Gripen multirole fighter jets. Ulf Kristersson, without specifying the exact number of jets, emphasized that this decision is part of broader cooperation with Western allies.

He added that Stockholm has simultaneously begun discussions to sell a larger number of the more advanced Gripen E variant. The cost of these new jets is expected to be funded through a European Union loan, demonstrating financial and military coordination among European NATO members in supporting Ukraine.

This decision comes as Sweden, after decades of neutrality, was officially accepted as the 32nd member of the NATO alliance in March 2024. Sweden’s membership marks a significant shift in its security policy, enabling more direct participation in Western defense programs.

Swedish media have reported that the process of delivering or selling these fighter jets could eventually total between 100 and 150 aircraft. If realized, this would represent one of the largest air support packages for Ukraine from any European country.