Zelensky: Ukraine will receive the first Gripens in 2026.

According to inkorr.com: During his official visit to Sweden, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine hopes to receive the first JAS 39 Gripen multi-role combat aircraft as early as 2026. He provided this information following a meeting with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and during a visit to the Saab factory in Linköping, where the aircraft are manufactured.

Zelensky emphasized that the main focus of the negotiations was strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities. The President underlined that Kyiv views the Gripen as one of the key elements of its future defense system:

«We greatly value our relations with Sweden and all forms of support for the Ukrainian people. Today, one of the main concerns is the strengthening of Ukraine's defense capabilities,» said the President.

Topics discussed by Zelensky and Prime Minister Kristersson

In addition to aviation issues, other important topics were discussed:

• Strengthening Ukrainian air defense;

• PURL program;

• Protection of critical infrastructure suffering from Russian attacks;

• Preparation for the EU Council meeting in Brussels;

• Meeting of the “Coalition of the Willing” in London.

Number of Gripen E-Jets for Ukraine

Zelensky and Kristersson signed a letter of intent for cooperation in the development of aviation capabilities. This document paves the way for Ukraine's participation in the Saab program and the potential acquisition of 100-150 Gripen E-Jets in the future.

The President expressed gratitude to the Swedish government for supporting Ukraine in the war against Russia and for actively strengthening defense potential. According to him, Gripen should become part of a long-term strategy for modernizing the Ukrainian Air Force. These aircraft are considered one of the most maneuverable in the world, capable of operating on short runways and in difficult conditions.

For Sweden, this step is historic as the country becomes one of Ukraine's key allies in air security issues. The Gripen developed by Saab is seen as a serious competitor to the F-16, which may also be received by the Ukrainian armed forces.

The first deliveries of these aircraft are expected in 2026, and by then Ukraine plans to train pilots and technical personnel for their maintenance.

The deepening cooperation between Ukraine and Sweden in the aviation sector underscores the importance of international support in the current military situation. Strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities through new technologies and combat aircraft will be an important step toward ensuring personal security and stability in the region.