Yesterday at 22:06
Ukrainian military personnel have already begun training to operate Swedish Gripen fighter jets, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson announced on X.
Jonson described the transfer of Gripen aircraft as “a new stage in the development of Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.”, UATV English reports.
“Ukraine is not just receiving aircraft. Ukraine is building a modern air force capable of fighting, surviving, and adapting in the most demanding conditions in Europe,” the minister wrote.
According to him, training for Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel is already underway and will expand further in the autumn. Jonson added that, following the necessary approvals, deliveries of Gripen C/D aircraft to Ukraine are expected to begin early next year.
“The goal is clear: strengthen Ukraine faster now and build a modern air force for the coming decades. A stronger Ukrainian air force makes Ukraine safer, Europe stronger, and leaves less room for Russian aggression,” he stressed.
Jonson also noted that the initiative is part of Sweden’s 22nd military aid package for Ukraine. Including this package, Sweden’s total military assistance to Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion has reached approximately €11.8 billion.
Earlier on Wednesday, Sweden announced a new support package for Ukraine worth $2.7 billion, including nearly $400 million allocated for drone production as well as the transfer of Gripen fighter jets.
The Swedish government has approved the purchase of up to 20 Gripen E/F fighter aircraft for Ukraine through the European Union’s Ukraine Support Loan mechanism. Sweden also plans to transfer 16 Gripen C/D aircraft as part of bilateral military assistance.
