LET’S GO!!!
Kristersson stated that, based on current production capacity, the first Gripen deliveries could take place within three years of a finalized contract. He emphasized, however, that the letter of intent marks only the beginning of discussions and does not yet constitute a binding sale.
This will be likely an “after the war” thing, no matter, this is such a large amount of aircraft the strategic implications are major and precede the arrival of the physical aircraft.
Hopefully this makes Trump feel left out so he greenlights the AH-1Z and UH-1Y helicopter sale.
Edit 1 United24 indicates actually Ukrainian pilots are already being trained on the Gripens and would start flying next year, can’t find any more on that yet to confirm though.
Edit 2 Yeah ok this timeline is likely faster than it appears, Ukrainian pilots started testing these Gripens in 2023.
https://www.sverigesradio.se/artikel/jonsson-ukrainska-piloter-har-testat-gripen
As I posted below, this is specifically about the completely new E/F variant, our own air force just took delivery of the first jet in the E/F series this monday.
I suspect that as deliveries to our air force continue we will start sending some C/D jets to Ukraine.
This is in fact a very resonable way forward.
That does not at all align with what you claim.
It absolutely does.
A new plattform like the E/F will have a lot issues to work out, they are normally worked out in exercises and testing, that can’t really be done effectively in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the C/D is an older plattform that is still VERY capable and has most issues worked out, it is far better to use that than the E/F, there is a lot of living experience with the C/D, there isn’t much living experience with the E/F yet.
You need to stop making perfect the enemy of good.