A month after announcing its intention to acquire the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E, Ukraine has placed its first firm order for 16 new-build fighters with Sweden's FMV defence material agency. Ahead of the E deliveries expected from 2029, deliveries of 16 former Swedish Air Force (SwAF) Gripen C/D is also expected to start in early 2027 under an interim donation agreement.
The SEK 24.6 billion ($2.53 billion) deal signed on June 30 cover four fewer airframes than the 20 units Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last month suggested might be ordered. Nevertheless, it is in line with an initial October 2025 letter of intent between Sweden and Ukraine, which saw the latter pledge to buy “up to a division” [16] aircraft as part of an overall 150-strong purchase intention. The FMV added that the new inter-governmental agreement—which incorporates spare parts, associated items and equipment—also includes “a comprehensive training package.”
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