Ukraine has signed an agreement with Sweden to purchase 16 Gripen E multirole fighter jets, marking what both sides described as a historic step in strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses.Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced the deal on his Telegram channel, reporting that itl was signed in the presence of President Volodymyr Zelensky and Swedish Minister of Defense Pål Jonson in Kyiv, Friday.JOIN US ON TELEGRAMFollow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official.“Gripen jets can carry Meteor missiles, which could make them one of the key factors in Ukraine’s technological advantage – primarily in detecting threats earlier, countering enemy aircraft more effectively and striking aerial targets at long range,” Fedorov said.Military aid, strategic purchase to followThe agreement runs alongside a separate operation track under which Sweden committed to supply Ukraine with 16 Gripen C/D jets as military assistance, with the first aircraft expected to arrive in early 2027.Fedorov said this will allow Ukraine to “faster integrate the platform, prepare pilots and technical personnel, adapt the infrastructure and build up the combat capabilities of the Air Force.”Reportedly, Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel have already begun training in Sweden. The deal includes equipment, as well as logistical and technical support, alongside the aircraft.Financed by Europe, backed by Great BritainThe purchase of the 16 Gripen E jets is financed through European Credit Funds with the support of Great Britain, with delivery aimed to begin in early 2029.