Ukraine may replicate Brazil’s model for localizing production of the Swedish JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighters. The first domestically assembled aircraft could appear as early as 2034–2035, according to Defense Express.
The Gripen E is a 4++-generation multirole fighter capable of speeds up to Mach 2, equipped with advanced radar, AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, and precision strike capability.
Gradual expansion of Ukrainian defense industry participation in Gripen's assembly
According to Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal, assembly is planned under the Brazil model to begin in 2033, with Ukrainian defense industry involvement gradually expanding, starting from kit assembly and moving toward manufacturing individual components directly in Ukraine.
Preparatory work, including the establishment of new production lines and training of specialists, is scheduled to start by 2030. Initially, assembly will rely on kits, with full-cycle production to be rolled out later.
The first 22–24 Gripen E/F fighters will be produced directly by Saab in Sweden, while the remaining approximately 125 aircraft will be assembled in Ukraine.
If a formal agreement with Saab is signed in 2026, deliveries of the first jets from Sweden are expected to begin around 2035. Preliminary calculations suggest that full production of 150 fighters could be completed between 2045 and 2050.
Gripen E/F to become Ukraine's main combat aircraft for decades
The first Gripen aircraft to arrive in Ukraine will be used Gripen C/D jets, which Sweden plans to deliver in 2026. These aircraft will provide an interim rearmament stage for the Air Force before production of the new E/F version begins.
Experts emphasize that the Gripen E/F will become Ukraine’s primary combat aircraft for decades.
“Gripen is the aircraft that Ukrainian pilots will be flying well into 2070 and beyond,” the analysts predict.
Saab is also reportedly exploring options for a parallel production line in Canada due to growing international demand.
