FIA 2026: Gripen marks operational milestone as Ukraine deal moves forward
Saab has a Gripen C on static display at Farnborough with a special scheme to mark the type’s 20th anniversary of service with the Czech Air Force. In 2031, Lockheed Martin F-35As will begin to replace them. (Photo: author)
At the end of June, Ukraine and Sweden signed a landmark deal which calls for a first batch of used Gripen C/Ds to be delivered from 2027, followed by the more advanced Gripen E.
In a contract signed by Saab and Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), the company will deliver 16 new-build Gripen Es to Ukraine in 2029-2030 in a transaction worth about US$2.5 billion.
The FMV says it “can continue preparations for the donation of the JAS 39 C/D aircraft, which is included in the government’s support package 22.” The Gripen can operate from civilian roads which will make Russian targeting of the aircraft on the ground much more difficult.
Brazil’s Gripen Es meanwhile have taken part in their first multinational exercise outside the country, with six F-39Es participating in SALITRE 2026 held
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Farnborough International Airshow 2026 | View all news
-
![July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough]()
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
![July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop]()
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
![FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne]()
FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
-
![Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)]()
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
![British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty]()
British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty
The UK’s choice of the Tekever AR5 for Project Corvus reflects a wider shift in military drone procurement towards solutions that centre on sovereignty and domestic production, moving away from overseas reliance.
