First Gripen jets to arrive in Ukraine in 2026 – Zelenskyy

Ukraine expects to receive 150 Swedish Gripen fighter jets, the first of which are due to arrive next year, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.

Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter)

Quote: "Together with Sweden, Ukraine will significantly increase its combat aviation numbers. This is an ambitious task and it must be fulfilled.

A historic step has been taken now – an agreement with Sweden on Gripen fighter aircraft, and that's a good choice. We are counting on 150 such aircraft for Ukraine, and the first are expected to arrive next year."

Details: Zelenskyy said that Gripens form part of future security guarantees and described the agreement as the most substantial aviation deal that Ukraine has entered into.

Background:

• Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson recently announced the signing of a letter of intent with Zelenskyy on the sale of 100-150 Gripen E fighters to Ukraine.
• Kristersson believes it is possible to begin the supplies of Gripen aircraft to Ukraine within three years.
• Ukraine's Air Force noted that Swedish Gripens cost less than comparable aircraft, are cheaper to maintain and will integrate smoothly into Ukraine's aviation system.

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