Ukraine and Sweden signed a letter of intent on October 22, 2025, for the purchase of 100 to 150 Gripen E fighter jets. The agreement, announced in Linköping, aims to bolster Ukraine's air force against Russian threats but requires further work on financing and production. Officials highlighted the jets' suitability for Ukrainian conditions and potential deterrent effect.
On October 22, 2025, in Linköping, Sweden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson signed a letter of intent for Ukraine to acquire between 100 and 150 Jas 39 Gripen E fighter jets from Saab. Zelenskyj described the aircraft as "fantastiska flygplan," emphasizing their advanced capabilities.
Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson called the development a "historisk dag för Sverige och Ukraina," noting that the Gripen E is particularly suited to Ukrainian needs due to its dispersal capabilities, electronic warfare systems, and design to counter Russian fighter threats. He stressed, however, that "det återstår mycket arbete" on costs, financing, production rates, and training, with initial deliveries expected in about three years. Jonson added that while Ukraine needs jets immediately, ongoing F-16 deliveries from other nations provide interim support, though those older platforms have limited longevity.
Experts like Andreas Hörnedal from the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI) praised the Gripen's flexibility, ease of maintenance, and adaptability to simple bases, making it ideal for Ukraine's conflict. He highlighted its potential "väldigt stark avskräckande funktion" against Russia, especially in securing airspace alongside air defenses.
The deal could become Saab's largest ever, boosting Swedish industry and creating jobs in Linköping, with CEO Michael Johansson describing it as an "otroligt viktig politisk handskakning." Saab's stock rose following the announcement. Financing may draw from 140 billion euros in frozen Russian assets in Belgium, amid European allies' push to support Ukraine independently of uncertain U.S. backing under President Trump. Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard viewed it as a "mycket stor exportaffär för Sverige," enhancing bilateral ties and Swedish defense expertise through Ukraine's combat experience.
Military expert Jörgen Elfving noted the Gripen's endorsement since a 2022 report on Ukraine's air war, potentially opening doors for more exports and affirming its modern status.
