Zelenskyy explains Ukraine’s choice of Gripen and announces timeline for first deliveries

Timeline for initial deliveries

Speaking about the upcoming Gripen deliveries to Ukraine, the head of state noted that Kyiv and Stockholm are opening a new chapter in their relations.

"Today, there is the first document that paves the way for Ukraine to receive a very serious fleet of Gripen fighter jets. These are excellent aircraft, strong aviation platforms that allow for a wide range of missions," he said.

According to Zelenskyy, every effort must be made to see the results of this memorandum of intent as early as next year. The first fighters could be delivered in 2026.

He clarified that the parties need to supplement the framework agreement on the Gripen with full details.

The president also noted that Ukraine has already been preparing and continues to prepare pilots to operate the Gripen.

Why Gripen

Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine already operates not only Soviet-made aircraft, including American F-16s.

He added that, from a strategic perspective, Ukraine’s air fleet consists of three platforms – Gripen, F-16, and Rafale – and although he did not want to disclose all the details of their plans, Gripen is a priority for the Ukrainian army. He explained that this choice is driven by the aircraft’s capabilities, maneuverability, and operational versatility.

The president emphasized that these aircraft are among the best in the world.

Gripen for Ukraine

Today, October 22, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a memorandum of intent, which provides for Ukraine to potentially acquire 120–150 Gripen fighter jets from Sweden.

The deal concerns the Gripen E model, which is the most advanced version.