Ukraine flies glide-bomber jets in escorted pairs, but Swedish Gripens with Meteors may change the game
Ukraine now operates its glide-bombers in pairs with escorts, and the Swedish Gripen jets equipped with Meteor missiles could give the escort a reach that Russian pilots cannot counter.
The Ukrainian Air Force has adapted its tactics, now sending glide-bomber aircraft in escorted pairs to improve survivability against Russian air defenses. However, these escorts could soon gain a significant edge with the introduction of Swedish Saab Gripen fighters armed with Meteor missiles. The Meteor is a long-range air-to-air missile capable of engaging targets up to 200 kilometers away, allowing Ukrainian escorts to neutralize Russian aircraft before they can retaliate. Currently, Russian pilots are actively pursuing Ukraine's glide-bombers, but the combination of Gripen and Meteor would give the Ukrainian side a reach that Russian pilots cannot shake. While specific delivery timelines remain unconfirmed, Ukraine's partners have pledged Gripen as part of long-term military support.
