Stockholm, May 28, (dpa/GNA) – Ukraine plans to buy 20 Swedish Jas 39 Gripen E/F combat aircraft, spending €2.5 billion ($2.9 billion) from an EU loan on the purchase, the Swedish government announced on Thursday.
“When Ukraine proceeds with the intended purchase, Sweden also aims to donate sixteen Gripen C/D aircraft as bilateral assistance,” the government said in a statement. Those older models could be delivered from next year.
The new Jas 39 Gripen E/F, which feature more powerful engines, greater range, more advanced radar and more modern electronics, are expected to be ready for delivery from 2030. Sweden would also provide support with training and technical maintenance, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Uppsala.
The jets, “very specific weapons”, would help Ukraine defend itself against the Russian use of aerial bombs especially, Zelensky said.
Last year, Sweden and Ukraine signed a letter of intent, paving the way for Ukraine to purchase up to 150 Swedish combat aircraft.
Thursday’s agreement was “the first step on this shared journey,” Kristersson said.
GNA