As early as 2026, Ukraine expects to receive the first of up to 150 Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets. The plan follows a letter of intent signed by Ukraine and Sweden in October 2025, paving the way for a future supply agreement. But could Gripen be a game-changer for the Ukrainian Air Force?

In this interview, Jussi Halmetoja—a pilot with over 2,300 flight hours and experience flying more than 25 different aircraft, including the Gripen—explains how these Swedish multi-role fighter jets can strengthen Ukraine’s air defense, air dominance, and battlefield capabilities.