Sweden to Supply Gripen Jets as Ukraine Builds a Multinational Fighter Fleet

Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister, Lieutenant General Ivan Havryliuk, confirmed that Swedish-made Gripen fighter jets are now part of the expected Western aircraft supply to Ukraine.

His remarks, made in an interview with BBC, indicate that Sweden has joined the list of countries preparing to transfer modern fighter jets to strengthen Ukraine’s air force capabilities.

When asked whether the expectation covers all three aircraft types—F-16, Mirage 2000, and Gripen—Havryliuk replied: “You have named the correct list, but I will not go into details on what, when, and how.”

This marks the first time a high-ranking Ukrainian official has publicly stated that Gripen jets are actively expected alongside previously announced aircraft from the United States and France.

The JAS 39 Gripen is a Swedish-made 4.5-generation multirole fighter designed by Saab AB. It is known for its advanced avionics, short runway capability, and cost-effective maintenance — making it ideal for nations operating under high-pressure combat conditions like Ukraine.

Unlike heavier and more expensive platforms such as the F-16 or Eurofighter Typhoon, the Gripen can take off from roads and operate from makeshift airfields. It uses Swedish and NATO-compatible weaponry, and is capable of performing both air defense and ground-attack missions.

Gripen aircraft are equipped with modern electronic warfare systems, beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles, and jam-resistant radar, allowing them to compete with more modern Russian aircraft in contested airspace.

The development follows a statement earlier this month by Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson, who said Stockholm was open to discussing future sales of Gripens to Ukraine—but only after the war ends.

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