Zelensky Signs Letter Of Intent To Acquire Whopping 150 Swedish Fighter Jets Over Next 10-15 Years

Ukraine signed a letter of intent with Sweden to acquire up to 150 Saab Gripen fighter jets over the next 10-15 years, a major commitment to its military. President Zelensky attended the signing ceremony, emphasizing the long-term nature of this deal. The agreement marks the first step towards Ukraine receiving a significant fleet of these advanced aircraft. Deliveries are expected to begin around 2026, pending on training for Ukrainian pilots. The Gripen E, a modernized version, is considered a vital upgrade for Ukraine's air force. This upgrade is seen as a more affordable alternative to advanced US fighter jets. The Gripen E boasts enhanced range, payload capacity, and advanced features. Swedish officials confirmed the timeline, emphasizing a multi-year delivery process starting within three years. Some analysts see the Gripen E as a future-proof system designed for operational effectiveness. Funding for this purchase is speculated to come from frozen Russian assets, adding to the complexities. This deal signals NATO's long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine's military capabilities into the future.