Ukraine intends to allocate part of the European Union's €90 billion ($95 billion) loan to purchase Swedish Gripen fighter jets, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson said following a meeting with his new Ukrainian counterpart Mykhailo Fedorov, Swedish outlet Nyheterna reports.
"With these 90 billion euros that we have managed to secure, Ukraine will also want to use part of the funds to start financing the purchase of Gripen and building a more powerful air defense system," Jonson said.
On Wednesday, the European Parliament approved a package of proposals aimed at supporting Ukraine through an expedited procedure, including an EU loan of €90 billion ($95 billion) for 2026–2027. Of this amount, €30 billion (32 billion) will go toward macro-financial assistance or budget support provided through the EU Mechanism for Ukraine. The remaining €60 billion ($63 billion) is earmarked for strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities and supporting military equipment procurement.
Jonson did not specify when Ukraine will be able to acquire the Gripen jets. "We are also negotiating with other countries about their participation in co-financing. We are now at an intensive stage," the minister added.
On 22 October 2025, Ukraine and Sweden signed a letter of intent that opened the possibility for a firm contract on supplying Swedish fighter jets to Ukraine. Ukraine expects to receive the first of 150 JAS-39 Gripen fighters in 2026. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said during the document signing that it represents "the beginning of a long journey over the next 10–15 years."
Ukraine and Sweden have also agreed on localizing production of JAS 39 Gripen fighters on Ukrainian territory.
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