DefenseSweden and Ukraine sign Gripen E letter of intent for up to 150 fighters
Sweden and Ukraine signed a letter of intent covering the potential sale of 100 to 150 Saab Gripen E multirole fighters during a meeting in Linköping on October 22. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the agreement, which does not constitute a binding contract.
If finalized, the deal could represent one of the largest fighter export orders in Swedish history, significantly expanding Ukraine’s combat air fleet. The proposed arrangement follows an extended period in which Sweden paused Gripen discussions to allow Ukraine to focus on the introduction of the F-16.
Ukraine has stated that acquiring the Gripen is a priority for its armed forces, citing cost advantages over platforms such as the F-35. Zelensky emphasized urgency in the procurement, while Kristersson noted that financing could involve frozen Russian assets and contributions from allied nations.
Today we have signed an important Letter of Intent, marking a step towards a massive possible export deal regarding Gripen – likely between 100 and 150 fighter jets, to build a new and very strong Ukrainian Air Force. President Zelenskyy also got the chance to see first-hand the impressive capabilities of the Gripen fighter. This will strengthen both Ukraine, Sweden and Europe.”, said Kristersson.
Ukrainian pilots have already traveled to Sweden to evaluate the Gripen. The agreement also outlines the prospect of long-term cooperation on air defense between the two countries, with Saab increasing its production capacity in Linköping to 20–30 Gripen E units annually.
Delivery of the first Gripen E fighters could begin within three years of contract finalization. Discussions are ongoing regarding the possible interim delivery of used Gripen aircraft, though no decisions have been taken.
Sweden currently has orders for 60 Gripen E fighters, and further negotiations are required before the Ukraine agreement can proceed.
Ukraine, in turn, has received used F-16 fighter jets from countries such as the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, and Belgium, totaling around 80 aircraft. France also sent reconfigured Mirage 2000-5 jets for ground attack.
Until the beginning of the large-scale Russian military invasion, the Ukrainian Air Force relied solely on Soviet-era aircraft such as the MiG-29, Su-25, Su-24, and Su-27, but in outdated variants.
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