Since 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Swedish officials have been engaged in discussions to facilitate the transfer of these advanced fighter jets. Initially, Sweden was cautious about making any promises due to its pending NATO membership. However, now that Sweden is a member of the alliance, renewed talks between Zelensky and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson are paving the way for this strategic transfer.
“For obvious reasons, Sweden was not ready to make any promises then, as the country had finalized its membership in the Alliance. Now the country is in NATO, and my president is talking to the Swedish prime minister again, and our defence ministry is talking to the relevant Swedish authorities. These fighters are as good as F-16s and we are moving in this direction,” Zhovkva said in an interview with the Voice of America on July 14, 2024.
The agreement to provide Ukraine with Gripen jets forms part of a broader security arrangement signed by President Zelensky and Prime Minister Kristersson. According to this agreement, Sweden will provide approximately EUR 6.5 billion in support to Ukraine from 2024 to 2026. This comprehensive military aid package includes aviation and air defence systems, armored vehicles, artillery, maritime enhancements, demining assistance, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Despite these advancements, the delivery of Gripen fighter jets has been postponed. This delay is primarily due to Ukraine initially receiving F-16 aircraft, making the simultaneous integration of two different fighter systems logistically challenging. However, the Gripen’s potential future deployment remains a critical aspect of Ukraine’s defence strategy.
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is a highly versatile, single-engine light fighter aircraft designed by Swedish aerospace and defence company Saab. Equipped with a powerful RM12 engine supplied by Volvo Aero, the Gripen can achieve speeds of up to 2,125 km/h and can be rapidly refueled using mobile forward arming and refueling points. This capability is particularly advantageous for Ukraine, whose airfields and bases are frequently targeted by Russian attacks.
One of the Gripen’s standout features is its ability to operate from dispersed airfields, including roads and runways, with minimal support. This operational flexibility makes it an ideal asset for Ukraine, enhancing its resilience and adaptability in the face of ongoing threats. The Gripen is also equipped to counter current and future threats, capable of performing a wide range of military missions, including air strikes, ground attacks, and reconnaissance.
