Ukraine purchases 16 latest Gripen fighters – deal worth €2.8 billion
Ukraine has officially announced the purchase of 16 JAS-39E Gripen fighters from Sweden, with an additional 16 older C/D models to follow. The total deal is valued at €2.8 billion and includes long-range Meteor air-to-air missiles.
Ukraine's Air Force is taking a major step in modernizing its capabilities by officially confirming the decision to purchase 16 Swedish-made JAS-39E Gripen fighters. The deal, announced on June 30, is worth €2.8 billion and also includes 16 older Gripen C/D variants, which are expected to arrive in Ukrainian skies in early 2027.
Swedish Defense Minister Paul Johnson confirmed at a press conference that the contract includes modern long-range air-to-air missiles – specifically the European co-produced Meteor missiles. This weapon will give Ukrainian fighters comparable capabilities to Russian Air Force fighters equipped with R-37M missiles, which allow them to drop glide bombs on Ukrainian positions with impunity.
Earlier, Ukrainian fighter pilot Vadym Voroshilov wrote on Instagram that the Gripen is the only fighter in the world for which he would sell his soul. Now that wish is becoming a reality, and the introduction of the Gripen into Ukraine's armed forces promises to significantly strengthen the country's air defense potential.
