Zelenskyy and Kristersson Sign Security Declaration, Sweden Donates 16 Gripen Jets

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson signed a joint declaration on May 28 to deepen security and defense cooperation, including work within the Drone Deal format. This occurred during Zelenskyy's working visit to Sweden, as stated by the President's Office.

The declaration, signed at Uppsala Air Base where Gripen fighters were displayed, accompanies Sweden's largest military aid package for Ukraine to date, valued at approximately $2.7 billion. Both nations committed to building integrated, multi-layered air defense, scaling up production of air defense systems, and improving anti-ballistic capabilities. They will also enhance defense-industrial cooperation and work towards a bilateral security and defense agreement.

The $2.7 billion package includes nearly $400 million for drone production and features Swedish Gripen multirole fighters. Sweden will donate 16 older Gripen C/D jets, with delivery expected in early 2027. Ukraine plans to purchase up to 20 new Gripen E/F models using €2.5 billion from an EU loan, with deliveries from 2030. Ukrainian pilots and technicians have already begun training on these jets, confirmed Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson.

Kristersson described the donation as a historic decision that significantly strengthens Ukraine's air defense. This marks a reversal from Sweden's 2024 decision to pause Gripen deliveries at the request of partner countries prioritizing US F-16s. Zelenskyy thanked Sweden for its consistent support, urging other partners to demonstrate similar determination.