Ukrainian pilots are already training on the Gripen, and the program will be expanded this fall — Swedish Ministry of Defense
Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel have already begun training on Swedish Gripen fighter jets.
This was announced by Swedish Defense Minister Paul Jonsson.
According to him, there are plans to expand the training program for Ukrainian crews this fall.
“Ukraine is not just receiving aircraft. Ukraine is building a modern air force capable of fighting, surviving, and adapting under the most challenging conditions in Europe,” Jonsson stated.
The minister emphasized that the Gripen C/D models meet Ukraine’s immediate needs, while the Gripen E/F models form the foundation of the future Air Force.
Jonsson also confirmed that the fighters could be delivered alongside long-range Meteor air-to-air missiles.
According to him, these missiles will allow Ukrainian forces to drive Russian aircraft carrying precision-guided munitions away from the front lines.
“The Gripen was designed for a country that may be forced to fight at a numerical disadvantage, under pressure, and from dispersed bases. This makes it extremely relevant for Ukraine,” emphasized the Swedish Minister of Defense.
Officials in Stockholm note that the Gripen is capable of rapid rearmament, operating under constant threat, and utilizing modern weaponry.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine will allocate part of the €90 billion in financial aid from the European Union 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.
