Ukrainian Pilot Training for Saab JAS-39 Gripen to Commence in 2026 (opex360.com)

• Strategic agreement for 100-150 JAS-39E/F fighter aircraft.
• Funding facilitated by a €90 billion credit facility.
• Training program initiation scheduled for 2026.

"Ukraine is set to begin training its pilots on the JAS-39 Gripen fighter jet this year, following a strategic letter of intent signed with Sweden last October. The agreement targets the acquisition of 100 to 150 JAS-39E/F units, financed via a significant portion of a €90 billion loan facility. While Ukraine maintains interest in the French Rafale, the Gripen procurement represents a critical shift toward Swedish aerospace integration for the Ukrainian Air Force to bolster regional security and military interoperability within European standards."