United Kingdom has unveiled a new fighter jet agreement aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s air defence capabilities while supporting thousands of jobs across Britain’s defence industry, as Western allies continue to deepen military support for Kyiv in its war against Russia.
Under the agreement, Ukraine will urgently receive 16 Swedish Gripen fighter aircraft, with plans also in place for Kyiv to purchase 20 additional jets through an EU-backed support loan designed to help build a long-term NATO-compatible air force.
According to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, “This deal shows what British industry can achieve on the world stage – supporting thousands of jobs from Yeovil to Edinburgh while helping to deliver the air power Ukraine needs to defend itself against Russia’s illegal invasion.”
“By standing with our allies and backing Ukraine, we are securing real benefits for British workers and businesses. This is our international partnerships working for Britain.”
Keir Starmer
The agreement marks a significant expansion of Western military support for Ukraine as the country continues to face intensified Russian missile and drone attacks more than four years after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion.
The Gripen fighter aircraft, manufactured by Swedish defence company Saab, is considered a highly capable multirole combat jet designed for rapid deployment, air defence missions and combat operations under demanding battlefield conditions. Defence experts say the aircraft’s agility and lower maintenance demands make them particularly effective for Ukraine’s operational environment.
Moreover, UK is expected to play a major industrial role in the programme, with more than 30% of each aircraft manufactured in Britain. British firms will provide key components, including radar systems and landing gear.
At least 50 UK-based companies are expected to participate in the deal, including Saab UK in Fareham and Leonardo UK in Edinburgh.
According to the government, the programme will support more than 5,000 jobs across the British defence and manufacturing sectors.
The agreement also reinforces growing defence ties between Britain and Sweden, two NATO allies that have increasingly coordinated military and security policies amid rising tensions in Europe and continued Russian aggression.
Defence Minister for Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard further indicated that the deal demonstrated the commitment of Britain and its allies to continue backing Ukraine while also strengthening domestic defence industries.
“As the fierce resistance of the Ukrainians continues, and as Russian aggression grows, the UK will not waver. We will stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and our NATO Allies like Sweden, bringing the combined power of our industries to bear to support the fight against Putin’s illegal war.”
Luke Pollard
He emphasised that, “this deal is both a big boost for Ukraine’s air power and a show of confidence in our world-leading UK defence industry, supporting thousands of good British jobs here at home,” adding, “this is the UK stepping up as one for Ukraine: our government, our military and our industry.”
Britain, Sweden Expand Military Support for Ukraine
Britain has remained one of Ukraine’s leading military supporters since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022, providing training, military equipment, intelligence support and financial assistance.
UK has also committed to supplying 120,000 drones to Ukraine this year alone.
According to the government, the total amount of military assistance provided to Ukraine by Sweden and Britain has already reached £11.4 billion.
The latest agreement comes amid wider efforts by NATO allies to help Ukraine modernise its armed forces and improve interoperability with Western military systems.
Military cooperation between Britain and Sweden has expanded significantly in recent years through NATO membership and the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), particularly in response to growing security concerns in the Baltic Sea region and the High North.
Last summer, Swedish Gripen aircraft deployed alongside Royal Air Force fighter jets in Poland as part of NATO air policing operations, highlighting the increasing operational coordination between the two countries.
In an era of increased geopolitical unpredictability, the pact also represents a larger effort to fortify Europe’s defence industrial base and lessen supply chain vulnerabilities.
While BAE Systems has a significant presence in Sweden through subsidiaries like BAE Bofors and BAE Hägglunds, Saab has already announced plans to invest £100 million in its Fareham site.
According to government officials, the partnership is merging Swedish and British industry knowledge and innovation to propel the development of next-generation defence and maritime technologies.
The purchase of more Western fighter aircraft is anticipated to greatly enhance Ukraine’s capacity to fend off aerial assaults, assist ground operations, and fortify its long-term security posture while the conflict with Russia rages on with no quick conclusion in sight.
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