Sweden Plans Major Arms Deal with Ukraine Involving Gripen Fighters
Sweden is reportedly preparing to sell Ukraine up to 120 JAS 39 Gripen E fighter jets. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Vladimir Zelensky will discuss defense cooperation in Linköping.
According to a report by Sweden’s TV4 channel, the Swedish government is preparing to sell Ukraine a large batch of JAS 39 Gripen E fighter jets. Sources cited by the outlet indicated that the potential deal involves approximately 120 aircraft.
The latest version of the Gripen is equipped with a more powerful engine, extended flight range, and upgraded radar and electronic systems compared to earlier models, making it one of the most advanced variants in the series.
TV4 also reported that a meeting between Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Vladimir Zelensky is scheduled to take place on Wednesday in Linköping. The talks are expected to focus on expanding defense cooperation, and an announcement regarding new steps in arms export policy may follow.
The meeting will be held at the facilities of Saab, the Swedish defense manufacturer that produces the JAS 39 Gripen fighter, the GlobalEye reconnaissance aircraft, missile systems, and other military equipment. It remains unclear whether the possible deal will include discussions on these additional types of weaponry.