Sweden Explores Financing Deal for Ukraine to Buy Up to 150 Gripen Jets
Sweden is considering financial support for a major deal with Ukraine to purchase up to 150 Gripen E fighter jets.
The Gaze reports on it, referring to Reuters.
Swedish Defense Minister Pal Johnson said that financing for the deal is actively moving forward and that Stockholm is working closely with Kyiv to ensure the contract is implemented.
The authorities are considering covering part of the costs through export credits and an aid program for Ukraine, which provides for 40 billion Swedish kronor in 2026 and another 40 billion in 2027.
The use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's military needs is also being discussed.
In October, Sweden signed a long-term agreement with Kyiv on cooperation in the field of air defense, which includes the export of Gripen E aircraft.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the agreement “very realistic,” but noted that the first deliveries could take place only in three years.
Meanwhile, manufacturer Saab is ready to expand production and bring in partners from Ukraine, Canada, and other countries to increase assembly capacity in Sweden and on the line in Brazil.
Analysts consider the Gripen E an inexpensive alternative to modern fifth-generation aircraft such as the F-35. Sweden is also in active negotiations with other European countries that may join in financing the contract, especially those that manufacture components for the Gripen, in order to support Ukraine's defense capabilities in the war against Russia.
The Gaze previously informed that Swedish defense manufacturer is considering establishing a final assembly and testing facility for its Gripen fighter jets in Ukraine, despite the challenges of operating during wartime.
CEO Micael Johansson highlighted the long-term potential for deepening defense cooperation with Kyiv, noting that such a move could eventually include partial production and significantly expand Saab’s manufacturing capacity to meet growing demand from European and NATO partners.
Sweden is a consistent supporter of Ukraine. On September 11, it announced its 20th military aid package to Ukraine worth $836 million, which includes 18 new Archer artillery systems, naval equipment, and air defense equipment. The aid is aimed to increase the Archer arsenal to 44 units and provide additional sensors, radars, and ammunition for boats and Tridon Mk2 systems.
Read more on The Gaze: Ukraine’s Post-War Aviation: From Soviet Legacy to Next-Generation Aircraft