Ukraine is set to receive a major boost to its air force under a new Swedish-led fighter jet agreement that will also support more than 5,000 jobs across the UK defence industry.
The package includes the urgent transfer of 16 Swedish-made Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine, while Kyiv is also expected to purchase 20 additional aircraft through an EU-backed loan programme.
British officials said the agreement would help Ukraine develop a modern air force capable of operating alongside NATO allies as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
More than 30% of each Gripen aircraft is manufactured in the UK, with British companies supplying key components including radar systems and landing gear. At least 50 UK-based firms are expected to contribute to the programme, including Saab UK in Fareham and Leonardo UK in Edinburgh.
The UK government said the deal would strengthen NATO supply chains and reinforce defence cooperation between Britain, Sweden and the United States, which all contribute to the Gripen programme.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the agreement as evidence of British industry’s global role while supporting Ukraine’s war effort.
“This deal shows what British industry can achieve on the world stage — supporting thousands of jobs from Yeovil to Edinburgh while helping to deliver the air power Ukraine needs to defend itself against Russia’s illegal invasion,” he said.
Defence minister Luke Pollard said the UK would continue to stand “shoulder to shoulder” with Ukraine and NATO allies, adding that the agreement demonstrated confidence in Britain’s defence sector.
The UK has provided extensive military assistance to Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, including training programmes, military equipment and plans to supply 120,000 drones this year. Combined military support from the UK and Sweden now totals £11.4 billion.
Britain and Sweden have expanded defence cooperation in recent years through NATO and the Joint Expeditionary Force alliance. Last summer, Swedish Gripen aircraft were deployed to Poland alongside RAF jets as part of NATO air policing operations.
The agreement also highlights growing industrial ties between British and Swedish defence companies. Saab is investing £100 million in its Fareham operations, while BAE Systems maintains a long-standing presence in Sweden through BAE Bofors and BAE Hägglunds. Photo by Chief Master Sgt. Gary Emery, Wikimedia commons.
