Ukraine plans to fundamentally modernize its air force on the Soviet model, the German publication Focus.de reported, according to which Kiev is preparing to purchase up to 300 Gripen and Rafale fighters.
According to the country's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine should have a total of 250 to 300 modern fighters in the medium term.
Ukraine is planning a comprehensive modernization of its air force, relying on fighters from Sweden and France. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced in early March that Kiev was preparing an initial payment for the Swedish Gripen fighters and the French Rafale. According to Belgian business news portal Business AM, the decision is the result of consultations with the country's military leadership.
According to Ukrainian sources, the first partial delivery of Swedish JAS-39 Gripen fighters is expected as early as 2026. This is based on a letter of intent signed with Stockholm in October 2025, which both sides say serves as a preliminary step towards a comprehensive supply contract.
Ukraine plans to initially deliver older Gripen C and D aircraft, then acquire 100 to 150 of the newer Gripen E variant, which features improved electronics, sensors and a longer range.
In addition to the Swedish fighters, Ukraine also plans to order 100 French Rafale fighters. These purchases are part of an overall strategy to modernize the Ukrainian Air Force in response to the Russian invasion.
Discussions with international partners have shown that Gripen is a practical choice due to its relatively low maintenance costs, the ability to operate from more accessible runways, and the shorter pilot training period of just six months for experienced pilots.