Ukraine to Receive First Shipment of Gripen Fighters Equipped with Meteor Missiles — Palisa

Ukraine is set to receive its first batch of Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, equipped with Meteor long-range air-to-air missiles, in the near future.

This was announced by Pavlo Palisa, Deputy Head of the Office of the President.

According to him, the delivery of the Gripen will significantly strengthen Ukraine’s air force and defense system.

“The Gripen, with Meteor missiles on board, will be the ‘long arm’ of our air force, allowing us to drive Russian cruise missile carriers away from the front lines. This is an invaluable boost to both our air force and the protection of our infantry,” Palisa stated.

The Office of the President emphasized that the Swedish fighter was designed for combat operations under conditions of constant air defense threat, rapid maneuvering, and operations from various forward operating bases.

“This is exactly the kind of war currently being waged in Ukraine,” Palisa noted.

He added that the arrival of the Gripen will expand Ukraine’s capabilities in combating Russian aircraft, missiles, and drones.

Separately, the Deputy Head of the Presidential Office thanked Sweden for its support of Ukraine.

“For Ukraine, the Gripen is not just a contribution to Ukrainian security. It is a contribution to the security of all of Europe,” Palisa emphasized.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine will allocate part of the funds from the European Union’s €90 billion financial aid package to defense needs, specifically for the purchase of Gripen fighter jets from Sweden. According to the head of state, the funding will help strengthen Ukraine’s defense and modernize its aviation capabilities.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that Stockholm and other countries in the region are prepared for possible actions by Russia in response to support for Ukraine, particularly in the event of the transfer of Gripen fighter jets.