UK pledges €300 million for 16 Gripen jets to Ukraine
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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a €300 million ($345 million) pledge to help Ukraine field a squadron of 16 Saab Gripen E fighter jets by 2029. The funding, announced during a visit to Kyiv on July 16, 2026, includes training, simulators, and spare parts.
The Funding Package
The UK pledge covers training for Ukrainian pilots and engineers, simulators, spare parts, and other equipment needed to operate and support the Gripen E fighters. Starmer said the investment would help put advanced Gripen jets in Ukrainian skies while supporting around 5,000 jobs at more than 50 UK-based companies, including Saab UK and Leonardo UK.
Broader Gripen Program
Saab signed a contract with Sweden's Defence Materiel Administration in June 2026 for 16 Gripen E fighters intended for Ukraine, valued at approximately $2.45 billion. Deliveries to Sweden are scheduled for 2029 and 2030. Sweden and Ukraine signed a letter of intent on broader air capability cooperation in October 2025, and Ukraine announced in May 2026 its intention to purchase up to 20 Gripen E/F aircraft.
Ukraine's Air Force Modernization
The Gripen E is the latest single-engine fighter from Saab, capable of air-to-air, ground strike, and reconnaissance missions. The UK government cited its low maintenance requirements and ability to operate with small ground crews as suited to Ukraine's needs. The fighters will join Ukraine's fleet of Soviet-designed aircraft alongside Western types like the F-16 and Mirage 2000.
What's Next
Sweden plans to donate up to 16 older Gripen C/D aircraft from its existing fleet, pending Ukraine's agreement to purchase the newer Gripen E/F. Training for Ukrainian pilots could begin in 2026, but the timeline for deliveries and full operational capability remains uncertain.
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UK pledges €300 million for 16 Gripen jets to Ukraine
