Ukraine signs agreement to purchase 16 Gripen E fighter jets from Sweden

On June 30, 2026, Ukraine and Sweden signed a contract for the procurement of 16 Gripen E multi-role fighter jets. The Swedish manufacturer Saab announced the deal is valued at approximately 2.53 billion U.S. dollars, or 24.6 billion Swedish krona. The agreement includes not only the aircraft but also necessary spare parts, equipment, and technical support. Saab plans to deliver the jets to the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) between 2029 and 2030. Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that 16 older C/D model fighter jets will be donated by Sweden and are expected to be delivered to the Ukrainian Air Force by early 2027. This donation follows an earlier agreement between President Zelenskyy and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. While Zelenskyy had previously suggested in May 2026 that Ukraine might purchase up to 20 Gripen jets, the current contract specifies 16. The initiative is intended to strengthen Ukraine's combat aviation capabilities.