Sweden to donate 16 Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine to boost air defense
Sweden has decided to donate 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine. The two countries signed a defense cooperation agreement, and pilot training has already begun. President Zelenskyy expects the jets to significantly improve air defense and potentially change the course of the war. Ukraine also plans to purchase new Gripen E/F jets in the future.
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- 📰 Published: May 28, 2026 at 23:12
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Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a defense cooperation agreement in Sweden today. Kristersson announced that Sweden will donate 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine. Pilot training has already begun, and the jets could be delivered as early as next year if operations proceed smoothly. Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude, noting that the Gripen jets are crucial for Ukraine's air defense and could be a 'game changer.' Ukraine also intends to purchase 20 new Gripen E/F jets, with the first delivery expected by 2030.
FAQ
Why is the Gripen fighter significant?
It is considered more robust and easier to operate than the F16 for Ukraine.