Ukraine Prepares Down Payment for Gripen and Rafale Fighter Jets

Ukraine is moving forward with plans to secure advanced fighter jets from Sweden and France.

The country is preparing a down payment for Swedish-made Gripen and French-made Rafale aircraft, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on March 5.

“We must have a down payment from the Ukrainian side for future aviation, regarding the Gripen and Rafale,” the President stated.

He noted that the matter was discussed on March 4 during a meeting with Ukraine’s Minister of Defense.

Ukraine expects to receive the first of 150 Swedish JAS-39 Gripen fighters as early as 2026. These initial deliveries are likely to be the C/D versions of the aircraft.

This follows a letter of intent signed between Ukraine and Sweden on October 22, 2025, which paved the way for a formal supply contract. Ultimately, Ukraine aims to acquire between 100 and 150 of the latest JAS-39 Gripen E models.

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Ukraine to Receive 150 Swedish Gripen Fighter Jets, First Deliveries Set for 2026

Oct 25, 2025 17:59

In addition to the Swedish jets, there are plans to order 100 French Rafale fighters to further strengthen the Ukrainian Air Force. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to modernize Ukraine’s aerial capabilities following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Earlier, Ukraine secured a formal commitment from Sweden for 150 new Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters in a deal valued between $12 billion and $15 billion.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that this agreement aimed to build a much larger air force modernization program, with the ultimate goal of establishing a fleet of 250 to 300 modern combat aircraft.

During discussions with partners, the Gripen was highlighted as a practical choice due to its lower maintenance costs, ability to operate from improvised runways, and a significantly shorter training period of six months for experienced pilots.

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