Sweden is not opposed to selling the latest modification of its renowned fighter, the JAS 39 Gripen E, to Ukraine. However, deliveries of the E-series would only be possible under a long-term agreement and after the war with russia ends. Much will depend on what future structure Ukraine envisions for its Air Force.
Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson outlined this position in an interview with Breaking Defense. He added that Sweden remains open to discussions about supplying older Gripen C/D variants, which could be transferred much sooner.
Read more: Czechia Secures Gripen Lease Until 2035 What the Fighters Cost the Air Force Annually
On a note from Defense Express, such a condition is logical: Saab, the manufacturer, is already heavily loaded with Gripen E orders and has only so much production capacity. Even if a contract were signed today, delivery of the new jets would take years anyway.
At the same time, the possibility of supplying existing Gripen C/Ds — which Ukraine has repeatedly requested — looks far more realistic. Preparations have also been made to support this option, including Sweden's purchase of new components to keep the older aircraft operational.
Saab itself supports the idea of supplying its fighters to Ukraine, expressing confidence that the Gripen E will eventually be delivered. As for the C/Ds, their transfer is primarily a political issue.
The Swedish Ministry of Defense also frames the Gripen E as a way to build a unified fleet for Ukraine, pointing to Sweden's experience in expanding fleets for export customers such as the Czech Republic, Hungary, Brazil, and Thailand.
The latest Gripen version would not be cheap, but Western partners have already pledged post-war support to expand Ukraine's capabilities. Still, the final composition of Ukraine's air fleet has not been settled, and competition may emerge from other suppliers — for instance, France is keen to promote its Dassault Rafale.
For now, the Gripen transfer remains uncertain. Previously, the pause was explained by the need to let Ukraine first master the F-16. But with Mirage 2000 deliveries already underway, a window for the Gripen could open sooner than expected.
Read more: Ukraine's Answer to UMPK: MiG-29 Spotted With a Domestic Glide Bomb
