Ukraine is scheduled to receive an initial 16 Gripen C/D aircraft as military assistance in early 2027. Separately, it has signed an agreement to purchase 16 Gripen E fighters, which are expected to begin operating in Ukraine in early 2029.
Khmara said receiving the fighters with their weapons would significantly strengthen Ukrainian aviation. He linked that capability to protecting frontline cities from Russian aircraft carrying glide bombs.
The Ukrainian ministry announced the Gripen E agreement on 30 June, with the signing held in the presence of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and representatives of both countries’ defence ministries. The purchase includes the necessary equipment and ongoing maintenance support.
The agreement is being implemented through a European loan with UK support, according to the ministry. Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel are already receiving training with help from partner countries.
The ministry cited the Gripen E’s active electronically scanned array radar and electronic warfare system as features that would improve threat detection and help jam enemy radars. It also said the aircraft’s new engine and increased fuel capacity would allow a larger weapons payload and longer missions.
Gripen E can carry Meteor air-to-air missiles with a range exceeding 100 kilometres, according to the June announcement. The statement described that capability without specifying Ukraine’s contracted weapons package.
The ministry said the aircraft would improve Ukraine’s ability to intercept cruise missiles and drones. They would also support combat operations along the frontline.
Alongside the Gripen preparations, Khmara and Jonson discussed urgent interceptor requirements following an overnight Russian strike. Ukraine proposed that partners supply Patriot missiles from existing stocks in exchange for future deliveries already planned under Ukrainian contracts.
“Ukraine stands ready to work with partners on various supply mechanisms,” Khmara said. “Every delivery of interceptors and every opportunity to protect people and civilian and critical infrastructure matters to us.”
The ministers also discussed speeding up deliveries of missiles for IRIS-T systems. Ukraine reiterated its requirement for Swedish man-portable air defence systems and associated ammunition.
