By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The JAS 39 Gripen is considered an ideal fighter jet for Ukraine, especially given its design for operating in environments similar to those in the ongoing war. Sweden and Ukraine signed a letter of intent to potentially export up to 150 Gripen E fighter jets, a modern variant with advanced capabilities, which would significantly upgrade Ukraine’s air force. The Gripen’s ability to operate from austere airstrips and require minimal maintenance makes it well-suited to the demands of dispersed air operations. While funding is still unclear, Ukrainian pilots have already begun training on the aircraft, with the first deliveries potentially occurring as early as next year.
Read the original article here
Ukraine just took a big step toward buying as many as 150 Gripen fighter jets built to battle Russia, and it seems like a pretty significant move. The news is that a letter of intent has been signed, a concrete indication of commitment. The timeline suggests that the first jets could be delivered in about three years, but the full deal will only be finalized after the war concludes. This timeline offers a glimpse into what a post-conflict Ukraine might look like, one that is strongly equipped to deter future aggression.
The Gripen, a small but agile aircraft, designed to be deployed from roads, presents a unique advantage. They offer operational flexibility, allowing them to be dispersed and hidden from potential Russian strikes. It’s also interesting to consider how this move might be perceived. The likely reaction from Russia is predictable; they will probably raise concerns about fairness and the potential escalation of the conflict.
The context of this decision is important too. Most European countries are already providing weapons and financial assistance to Ukraine. This move by Sweden is a further commitment, showing that Ukraine’s allies are committed to its defense. The idea of acquiring 150 Gripen jets is pretty ambitious and costly, running into billions. This raises questions about how the purchase will be financed. Could this be partially funded by frozen Russian assets? Maybe there will be a discounted price.
Compared to other fighter jets, the Gripen offers a compelling combination of capabilities and cost-effectiveness. A fleet of 150 Gripens could provide a substantial boost to Ukraine’s air power, offering a significant deterrent to future aggression. The Gripen doesn’t have a disabling switch in some US DoD facility.
This development is especially relevant given the situation with the F-16s. The US is giving retired F-16s to Ukraine but the effectiveness in the modern battlefield remains a question. Russian aircraft can launch missiles from inside their own territory, which puts the F-16’s interception abilities to the test. Some reports indicate F-16s are effective in intercepting some Russian missiles and used in ground attacks. The F-16 was designed for air interception, not for ground attacks.
The provision of the Gripens will signal Ukraine’s determination to fight for its survival. This is more than just about acquiring military hardware; it’s about making a clear statement about commitment, resolve, and a strong signal to Russia.