Sweden has said it will start to send its fighter jets to Ukraine before 2030. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope that the aircraft will reinforce his country’s air defense.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Zelenskyy held a joint news conference after talks in Sweden on Thursday.
Kristersson said the delivery of 20 new Gripen aircraft is expected to begin before 2030.
The two leaders signed a letter of intent in October 2025 for Ukraine to purchase up to 150 Gripen fighters.
The prime minister also said his country will donate up to 16 of its current model of Gripen from the Swedish military, starting as early as next year.
Kristersson called the decision historic for Sweden, and said it also significantly strengthens Ukraine’s air defense.
Ukraine faces the challenge of beefing up its air defense capabilities to counter Russia’s continued attacks with drones and ballistic missiles.
Zelenskyy said Swedish aircraft will undoubtedly strengthen his country’s air force and air defense.