Military expert Alexander Stepanov from the Institute of Law and National Security at RANEPA believes Ukrainian forces may eventually use Gripen fighter jets for strikes on Russian territory.

According to Stepanov, Sweden has become one of the main drivers of escalation this week with its intention to supply the Kiev regime with around 150 Gripen E/F fighters by 2030.

He noted that Kiev is expected to receive an initial batch of 16 Jas Gripen C/D aircraft in early 2027. These jets are capable of carrying long-range Taurus cruise missiles, which can hit targets at considerable distances, including infrastructure sites in the European part of Russia.

Earlier, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said at a joint press conference with Vladimir Zelensky that Sweden planned to provide Ukraine with 16 Gripen fighters and later supply 20 new Jas 39 E/F aircraft.

In response, the head of the Kiev regime said Ukraine intended to purchase up to 150 Swedish fighters. According to him, Sweden will train pilots and technical personnel, while the purchase will be financed through a loan provided by the European Union.