Ukraine has taken another important step in modernizing its air force, signing a contract on June 30 for the supply of 16 new single-seat Saab JAS 39 Gripen E fighters.
The intergovernmental contract, worth approximately 24.6 billion Swedish kronor (about $2.54 billion), was signed between Saab and the Swedish Armaments Directorate on behalf of Ukraine, marking the first Gripen E order from Kiev.
The agreement was formalized in Kiev in the presence of Ukrainian President Zelensky and Swedish officials. The Ukrainian president described the signing as a “historic day,” emphasizing that cooperation with Sweden is not limited to fighter aircraft, but also extends to areas such as unmanned systems and air defense.
The contract includes, in addition to the 16 new Gripen Es, spare parts, support equipment, technical assistance, training and comprehensive logistics support. According to Saab, deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled to take place in the period 2029-2030.
Before the arrival of the new Gripen E, Sweden plans to provide Ukraine with up to 16 used Saab JAS 39 Gripen C/Ds, with the aim of first deliveries starting in early 2027. These aircraft will allow for the faster operational integration of the type into the Ukrainian air force, while training programs for Ukrainian pilots and technicians are already underway in Sweden.
First step of a much larger program
The new contract is a follow-up to the Letter of Intent signed in October 2025. In May 2026, the two countries announced their intention to purchase up to 20 Gripen E/Fs and donate 16 Gripen C/Ds, with the long-term goal of acquiring up to 150 Gripen Es from Ukraine. The financing of the first package comes from European support mechanisms for Ukraine.
A fighter adapted to Ukrainian needs
According to Ukrainian sources, the Gripen is considered particularly suitable for Ukraine’s operational requirements. It is distinguished by its low cost of use, limited maintenance requirements and its ability to operate from short runways, highways or makeshift bases, characteristics that significantly increase its survivability against attacks on air bases. At the same time, its open architecture allows for continuous upgrading and the easy integration of new weapons and sensors.
With the signing of the contract, Ukraine acquires another Western fighter, alongside the F-16 Fighting Falcon and Dassault Mirage 2000, gradually strengthening the transition of its air force to fully interoperable NATO standards.
Let us recall that a memorandum of understanding between Ukraine and France for the supply of up to 100 Rafale is pending.
