Why Gripen's Meteor missile could become a game changer for Ukraine
Photo: Yurii Ihnat (Getty Images)
Sweden’s Gripen fighter jets will not change the situation on the battlefield overnight, but the Meteor missiles they carry could push Russian aviation farther away from Ukraine’s borders, according to Yurii Ihnat, head of communications for the Ukrainian Air Force.
He urged caution when using the term “game changer,” noting that any weapon must first be tested in real combat conditions. As an example, he cited the F-16 fighter jets, which were also expected to bring rapid changes, but Ukraine ultimately received older versions of the aircraft.
According to Ihnat, a similar situation applies to Gripen jets. Ukraine is expected to receive the older C/D variants.
At the same time, Ihnat explained that the Gripen has significant advantages: it is easy to operate, capable of landing on various types of runways, and is among the least expensive fighter aircraft in its class to maintain and operate.
Why Meteor missiles could change the battlefield
One of the biggest advantages of the Swedish fighter jets is their compatibility with nearly the entire range of Western weapons systems, both American and European.
“And most importantly, the Meteor missile could be that ‘game changer’ if everything works out tactically... This missile could push back Russian aviation that attacks us with guided bombs from near our borders,” Ihnat said.
What is known about the Meteor missile
The Meteor air-to-air missile is considered one of the most effective long-range missiles for aerial combat. Its stated engagement range exceeds 120 kilometers and, according to some estimates, may reach nearly 200 kilometers.
A key feature of the Meteor is its ramjet engine, which allows the missile to maintain high speed throughout most of its flight path. As a result, it retains significant energy even during the final phase of flight and remains highly dangerous against maneuvering targets.
The Meteor is designed to destroy a wide range of aerial targets, including fighter jets, bombers, missile-carrying aircraft, and large drones. It poses a particular threat to Russian Su-35 and Su-30 fighters, as well as A-50 airborne early warning aircraft used to coordinate air operations.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Sweden would transfer 16 Gripen C and D fighter jets to Ukraine free of charge. In addition, Ukraine plans to purchase 22 new aircraft of the latest modification.
It is worth noting that a possible Gripen sale had been discussed by the two sides even before the agreement was formally finalized. RBC-Ukraine previously reported on the preliminary arrangements and details of the negotiations.
