Ukraine and Sweden have agreed to begin localizing the production of Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets on Ukrainian territory, with plans to establish significant domestic manufacturing by 2033, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced on 7 November, as reported by Ukrainian national broadcaster Suspilne.

This marks a major step in Ukraine’s long-term strategy to rebuild and modernize its defense industry through Western technology partnerships. By producing advanced fighter jets domestically, Kyiv secures greater self-sufficiency in arms manufacturing, strengthens its air force against continued Russian attacks, and integrates more deeply into Europe’s defense ecosystem.

According to Shmyhal, the two countries finalized the details with Sweden’s Ministry of Defence on 6 November, including provisions for the supply of up to 150 Gripen E-class fighters. A memorandum of intent was signed between a Ukrainian defense enterprise and Saab, the Swedish aerospace manufacturer, to set up future production inside Ukraine.

“From 2033, Gripen production will be significantly localized in Ukraine, from large-unit assembly to the manufacturing of individual components,” Shmyhal said.

First jets arrive next year, domestic production follows

Ukraine expects to receive its first Gripen fighter jets from Sweden as early as next year, with initial batches likely to include older C and D models, before the full-scale production of the advanced Gripen E variant begins later in the decade.

Ukrainian defense portal Militarnyi notes that the localization project would be Ukraine’s first large-scale fighter-aircraft production effort, encompassing everything from assembly to parts manufacturing. Saab is also reportedly exploring options for a parallel production line in Canada due to growing international demand.

Deal builds on Ukraine's largest-ever combat aviation agreement

The agreement follows the 22 October 2025 letter of intent signed by Zelenskyy and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson for the purchase of 100 to 150 Gripen E fighters - Ukraine’s largest-ever combat aviation deal. 

Kristersson described it as a long-term partnership to build a “serious air force” capable of defending Ukrainian skies against Russian attacks.

The Gripen E is a 4++-generation multirole fighter capable of speeds up to Mach 2, equipped with advanced radar, AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, and precision strike capability.