Ukraine set to acquire advanced Gripen fighter jets, reshaping the course of war

A recently signed agreement between Sweden and Ukraine will allow Ukraine to purchase between 100 and 150 JAS-39 Gripen-E fighter jets, one of Sweden’s most advanced multirole combat aircraft.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that the project is a long-term process spanning 10 to 15 years and that deliveries cannot begin immediately.

Yurii Ihnat, head of communications for the Ukrainian Air Force, explained that acquiring fighter jets is a complex and time-consuming intergovernmental process. Experts believe Ukraine is more likely to receive the older Gripen C/D versions first. Nonetheless, the addition of these jets will significantly enhance Ukraine’s air combat capabilities.

The Gripen jet is renowned for its speed, versatility, advanced radar, and low maintenance costs. It performs effectively in air-to-air, air-to-ground, and reconnaissance missions. The latest Gripen-E model, powered by a General Electric F414G engine, can reach speeds of up to 2,130 km/h (Mach 2). Equipped with an advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and a panoramic cockpit display, it provides pilots with a real-time view of the battlefield.

In May 2025, the Gripen-E made history when it was flown for the first time by artificial intelligence (AI). Known as “Centaur,” the AI pilot successfully completed three flight missions, demonstrating the aircraft’s advanced beyond-visual-range combat capabilities.

While the older Gripen C/D variant is less advanced, it remains a capable multirole fighter powered by the Volvo RM12 engine. It is lighter, carries less fuel, yet remains highly effective in combat operations.

One of the Gripen’s major strengths lies in its versatile armament. It can engage targets at long range with Meteor and AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles and perform short-range dogfights using IRIS-T and Sidewinder missiles.

Military expert Andrii Kharuk noted, “The Gripen’s biggest advantage is its ability to carry Meteor missiles, which the United States does not possess.” He also added that the data-sharing system of the Swedish jet is even more advanced than the American Link-16 network.

Another advantage of the Gripen is its ability to take off and land from short runways or ordinary roads. It is easy to maintain and can be refueled and relaunched within just 10 minutes under ideal conditions.

The aircraft’s air intake design, positioned along the fuselage sides, reduces the risk of debris ingestion during takeoff from damaged runways—a key tactical feature in war zones. However, since the Gripen-E/F variants include several U.S.-made components, their export and operation may require approval from Washington.

As Russian weapons continue striking deeper behind frontlines, the Gripen’s Meteor missiles could play a critical role in countering glide bombs. Military analyst Justin Bronk stated, “The Meteor alone can strike Russian Su-34 bombers from a distance of 60 to 100 kilometers.”

These missiles could also hit targets in Russia’s Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, and Rostov regions from within Ukrainian-controlled territory. Yet, Kharuk cautioned, “The Gripen is no miracle weapon; it’s simply another powerful tool for Ukraine.”

Experts emphasize that the impact of the Gripen depends on how many jets Ukraine receives and how quickly deliveries occur. Sweden currently operates around 100 Gripens, both old and new models.

Brazil’s experience suggests the process could take years: although it signed a deal for Gripens in 2014, it has received only 10 aircraft by 2025.

President Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine has also reached an agreement for local production of Gripen jets in partnership with Sweden. While the timeline and implementation details remain undisclosed, analysts believe Ukraine could receive about a dozen older Gripen fighters within the next year. Sweden has already shipped parts for the jets in September.

Source: Kyiv Independent
Khaborwala/TSN