Published May 28th, 2026 - 04:58 GMT
Highlights
Zelensky described the agreement as “a historic day” for relations between Sweden and Ukraine, emphasizing that the fighter jets would significantly strengthen Ukraine’s air defense and combat capabilities against Russian attacks.
ALBAWABA- Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced on May 28, 2026, that Sweden will donate 16 JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine, marking a major expansion of Stockholm’s military support for Kyiv amid the ongoing war with Russia.The announcement was made during a joint appearance with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Uppsala Airbase north of Stockholm.According to Swedish officials, the donation will include older-model Gripen C/D aircraft from Swedish Air Force inventories, with deliveries expected to begin in early 2027. In parallel, Ukraine is reportedly planning to purchase up to 20 newer Gripen E/F aircraft from Swedish defense manufacturer Saab as part of a broader long-term defense partnership that could eventually expand to between 100 and 150 aircraft.Zelensky described the agreement as “a historic day” for relations between Sweden and Ukraine, emphasizing that the fighter jets would significantly strengthen Ukraine’s air defense and combat capabilities against Russian attacks.Swedish authorities also confirmed that Ukrainian pilots and ground crews have already begun training on the Gripen platform.BREAKING: Sweden is donating 16 JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine, with Zelensky in Stockholm for the announcement at Uppsala airbase. pic.twitter.com/6PASCFmea8— Clash Report (@clashreport) May 28, 2026 The move builds on a Letter of Intent signed by the two countries in October 2025 and reflects Sweden’s increasingly active role in supporting Ukraine following its accession to NATO.The Gripen is widely regarded as a versatile multi-role fighter aircraft known for advanced avionics, high maneuverability, and relatively low operating costs. The aircraft are expected to be equipped with modern weapons systems, including Meteor, IRIS-T, and AMRAAM missiles.The announcement forms part of Sweden’s largest military aid package to Ukraine so far, reportedly valued at approximately $2.7 billion. It comes as Ukraine continues to face intensified Russian missile and air strikes, increasing pressure on Kyiv to modernize and strengthen its air force capabilities.The decision also represents one of the most significant Western fighter jet commitments to Ukraine beyond previously pledged F-16 programs, further deepening defense cooperation between Stockholm and Kyiv while reinforcing Ukraine’s long-term military modernization strategy.
