Gripen for Ukraine: Sweden Considers Financing Fighter Jets With Russian Assets

Sweden is considering financing the purchase of more than a hundred Gripen E fighter jets for Ukraine using frozen Russian assets.

This was announced by Swedish Defense Minister Paul Jonson, according to The Guardian. According to him, the agreement is quite realistic, and the government is currently analyzing several possible options for its implementation.

He added that the final decision will depend on the position of the European Union and the coordination of legal mechanisms.

“We are exploring the potential use of frozen Russian assets,” Jonsson said.

The cost of one Gripen E fighter jet is approximately $85 million, so an order for 100 aircraft is estimated at $8.5 billion.

These aircraft are highly effective in combat and designed for operation in difficult conditions, which makes them particularly valuable to the Ukrainian Air Force.

The issue of using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine has been discussed in the EU for a long time.

In particular, Brussels is looking for a legal way to channel the proceeds from these assets into military and financial aid to Kyiv.

According to reports, there is a chance that a decision on this issue will be made ahead of this week’s EU summit.

In total, Ukraine plans to purchase between 100 and 150 aircraft. Yesterday, Ukraine and Sweden signed a declaration of intent on cooperation in the defense sector.

The JAS 39 Gripen E is the latest version of the Swedish multi-role fighter jet developed by Saab.

It combines maneuverability, economy, and high efficiency in combat conditions. The model is equipped with a more powerful engine, which provides greater flight range, as well as an improved weapon control system. In addition, the aircraft has modern radar and advanced electronics, which increases its ability to detect and destroy targets.