Ukraine Plans to Purchase Swedish Gripen Fighter Jets with EU Loan Funds

Ukraine intends to allocate part of the €90 billion EU loan to purchase Swedish Gripen fighter jets.

Sweden’s Defence Minister Pål Jonson said this after meeting with his new Ukrainian counterpart Mykhailo Fedorov, according to the Swedish news outlet Nyheterna.

“Thanks to the €90 billion we have secured, Ukraine plans to use part of the funds to begin financing the acquisition of Gripen aircraft and to strengthen its air defence system,” Jonson stated.

On Wednesday, the European Parliament adopted, under an urgent procedure, a package of proposals aimed at supporting Ukraine, including the provision of a €90 billion EU loan for 2026–2027.

Of this amount, €30 billion will be allocated for macro-financial assistance or budget support, to be provided through the EU Ukraine Facility.

Another €60 billion is earmarked to strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities and support the procurement of military equipment.

When exactly Ukraine will be able to purchase the Gripen aircraft has not yet been specified, Pål Jonson said.

“We are also holding talks with other countries regarding their participation in co-financing. We are currently at an intensive stage,” the minister added.

Gripen for Ukraine

On 22 October 2025, Ukraine and Sweden signed a letter of intent that opened the way for concluding a firm contract on the supply of Swedish fighter jets to Ukraine.

Ukraine expects to receive the first of 150 JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets as early as 2026.

Meanwhile, Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said during the signing of the document that it marked “the beginning of a long journey over the next 10–15 years.”

Ukraine and Sweden also agreed on the localization of JAS 39 Gripen fighter jet production on Ukrainian territory.