Sweden will supply Ukraine with long-range Meteor air-to-air missiles for its future fleet of JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, Defense Minister Pål Jonson confirmed in Kyiv on Wednesday, July 1.
Speaking alongside Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, Jonson said the Gripen aircraft will be equipped with long-range strike capabilities as part of broader efforts within an “aviation coalition” involving Sweden, the Netherlands, Denmark and the United States.
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He said the capability is intended to increase pressure on Russian aviation and force aircraft away from sensitive frontline areas.
Fedorov said the Meteor missiles are expected to play a key role in Ukraine’s future air defense system, particularly against Russian aircraft carrying KABs – guided air-dropped bombs used by Moscow.
“Gripen jets can carry Meteor missiles, which could make them one of the key factors in Ukraine’s technological advantage – primarily in detecting threats earlier, countering enemy aircraft more effectively and striking aerial targets at long range,” Fedorov said.
He added that Ukraine would receive the missiles together with the Gripen aircraft, though the exact number remains undisclosed.
The confirmation comes just one day after Ukraine signed a separate agreement for the purchase of 16 Gripen E fighter jets from Sweden – a long-term deal that will form the backbone of Kyiv’s future fighter fleet. The jets are expected to begin arriving in 2029.
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Meteor is one of Europe’s most advanced beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, produced by European defense giant MBDA.
It has a range exceeding 100 kilometers (62 miles), with a reported maximum reach of up to 200 kilometers (124 miles), and uses a ramjet engine that maintains thrust throughout flight, improving performance at long range.
Officials say the missile’s integration with Gripen aircraft will significantly enhance Ukraine’s ability to push Russian aircraft away from the front line and disrupt strike aviation operating deeper in Russian-controlled airspace.
The Gripen deal also includes earlier-generation “C/D” aircraft provided as military aid, with first deliveries expected in 2027, alongside training and technical support for Ukrainian pilots and ground crews.
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