“And we very much hope — we will discuss this today with His Majesty — that our pilots will begin training already this year,” the head of state said.
He noted that Stockholm has allocated €4 billion for Ukraine’s support in 2026.
Zelenskyy also thanked Sweden for supporting humanitarian initiatives, including Bring Kids Back, as well as school meal programs.
The king, in turn, assured full support for Ukraine.
“Today I also look forward to meeting Ukrainians and hearing their stories. Solidarity with Ukraine in Swedish society is very strong,” he said.
On Oct. 27, 2025, Swedish defense company Saab said it was ready to open a final assembly plant for Gripen fighter jets in Ukraine as part of a proposed deal for Kyiv to purchase up to 150 aircraft.
On Nov. 7, then-Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal said full-scale production is expected to begin in 2033.
On Feb. 8, 2026, Zelenskyy said Ukraine has agreements with international partners for the supply of 150 Swedish Gripen fighter jets and 100 French Rafale aircraft.
“Ukraine has agreements for the supply of 150 Gripen and 100 Rafale fighter jets. These are the best aircraft in the world, in our view,” he said, уточнив that these would be brand-new planes.
On Feb. 13, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson said Ukraine wants to use €90 billion in EU funds to purchase Gripen fighter jets.