JAS 39 Gripen: Ace up Ukraine's sleeve against Russia

Faced with the need for air support, Sweden is considering offering its JAS 39 Gripen fighter to Ukraine, a multipurpose machine that could counter Russian superiority in the skies.

Sweden reinforces military support for Ukraine.

Ten Stridsvagn 122 tanks, a variant of the German Leopard 2 designed for the Swedish Armed Forces, have already been supplied. In addition, Swedish experts provided specialized training on this machinery to Ukrainian forces.

JAS 39 Gripen: Ace up Ukraine's sleeve against Russia — JAS 39 Gripen

Despite staying away from fighter aircraft, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonsson recently indicated possible cooperation with Ukrainian pilots in operating JAS 39 Gripen fighters.

The Gripen, noted for its versatility, would be a valuable addition to the Ukrainian Air Force, allowing operations on remote runways with limited infrastructure.

Stockholm reconsiders air support to Ukraine.

Although Sweden was initially reluctant to provide aircraft to Ukraine, the situation has changed. This change is possibly due to Turkey’s announcement to support the Swedish candidacy for NATO. Now, the incorporation of the Nordic nation into the alliance seems imminent.

On the other hand, the United States has guaranteed training for Ukrainian pilots in handling the F-16 Fighting Falcon, with units from Denmark and Holland.

This move could have encouraged Sweden to reconsider sending JAS 39 Gripen fighters to Ukraine. However, questions were raised about the possible impact on national defense and the replacement of the aircraft.

JAS 39 Gripen: Ukraine‘s card up its sleeve

This aircraft could neutralize Russian air superiority and enhance the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Despite its age, the Gripen is highly competent and versatile, designed to take on Soviet aircraft.

Powered by a Volvo turbofan engine with afterburning, this fighter reaches Mach-2 speeds and has a range of 3,200 km. Its design allows operations from short runways and converted highways, offering logistical advantages compared to other models.

Although it has not been tested in combat, the Gripen may be the key to defending Ukraine’s territory against Russia.

Capabilities of the JAS 39 Gripen in the War Panorama

The Gripen, called “Griffin” in Swedish, stands out for its efficiency in refueling and rearming, ready in just 10 minutes. Its ability to operate from short runways, even highways, gives it an advantage over the F-16.

Russia should fear the new fleet of 250 Nordic fighters — A Swedish JAS-39 Gripen returns to the Arctic Challenge exercise grounds on Sept. 24, 2013, over Norway, after taking on fuel from a U.S. Air Force KC-135R Stratotanker. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Christopher Mesnard / Published)

Despite not having been tested in armed conflicts, the current situation could provide the opportunity to demonstrate its potential and effectiveness in combat.

With its possible incorporation into the Ukrainian scenario, this aircraft could change the course of the conflict and establish a new standard in air combat strategies.