Sweden donates 16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

At a joint press conference with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at an air base in Uppsala, Sweden, on May 28 (local time), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Kyiv would soon order 20 modern Gripen E/F fighter jets manufactured in Sweden to modernize its air force, Reuters reported.

The President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of Sweden at a press conference on May 28. Photo: Reuters

"We need these jets and for us, this really marks a new chapter for Ukraine," Zelensky said. The batch of 20 aircraft is worth approximately $2.9 billion, and that money will be allocated from the 90 billion euro ($105 billion) loan approved by the European Union for Ukraine.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson later stated that the two countries aim to finalize the agreement soon so that the delivery of the fighter jets can begin in 2030.

He also announced that Sweden would donate 16 older and used Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine, with the first deliveries scheduled for early 2027. "This is a historic decision for Sweden and will significantly enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities," Prime Minister Kristersson said.

According to Reuters, Ukraine and Sweden signed a letter of intent in October 2025 regarding Kyiv's desire to purchase 100-150 Swedish-made Gripen E fighter jets. President Zelensky expressed hope of acquiring all 150 aircraft. "We hope to find the financing to do that," he said.

The Swedish government said the older Gripen C/D squadron is included in the 22nd military aid package for Ukraine, totaling approximately $2.7 billion. Stockholm has strongly supported Kyiv, providing a total of $13.7 billion in military aid since the conflict began.

The JAS 39 Gripen is a single-engine light fighter developed by the Swedish company Saab. Approximately 300 aircraft have been produced and are serving in the armed forces of seven countries worldwide .

Of these, the most modern JAS 39 E/F variant began production in late 2023, priced at approximately $85 million per aircraft (excluding weapons). The aircraft's combat radius is 925-1,500 km, depending on weapon configuration and mission. Each aircraft has 10 hardpoints with a maximum weapon payload of approximately 7.2 tons.

The Swedish Gripen fighter jet is considered a suitable option for Ukraine because it is not too expensive, easy to maintain, does not require a large number of highly trained soldiers, and does not need extensive ground infrastructure support.

Thai Ha

Source: https://cand.vn/thuy-dien-tang-ukraine-16-tiem-kich-post812277.html