Ukraine and Sweden finalized a bilateral agreement on June 30, 2026, solidifying the transfer of 16 active-inventory JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter jets starting in early 2027 alongside a contract for 16 newly manufactured Gripen E variants. The phased procurement strategy addresses immediate operational attrition caused by ongoing Russian missile and drone strikes against fixed military infrastructure. Strategically, the Gripen fleet enhances the survival capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force due to its specialized delta-canard design built for dispersed highway operations, minimal logistical footprints, and rapid turnaround execution. Read full defense news at this link...
 |
| The Gripen C/D was designed to require fewer maintenance personnel, less ground equipment, and less fixed infrastructure than heavier Western fighter aircraft, which will help Ukraine operate under persistent Russian pressure against air bases. (Picture source: Hungarian MoD) |