---
title: "New phase of modernization: Ukraine accelerates transition to Gripen E fighters"
description: "Training of Ukrainian pilots for Gripen E fighters is proceeding faster than expected. Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the imminent arrival of Swedish aircraft in Ukrainian skies and reported on negotiations with France regarding the purchase of Rafale jets. 🇺🇦✈️🇸🇪"
date: 2026-08-02T15:32:00.000Z
lang: en
url: https://xab.info/en/posts/ukraine-accelerates-transition-to-gripen-e
tags: []
publisher: "XAB.info"
---

# New phase of modernization: Ukraine accelerates transition to Gripen E fighters

![Saab Gripen E fighter jet in flight, symbolizing the modernization of Ukraine's Air Force](https://xab.info/media/2026/08/02/ukraina-uskoryaet-perexod-na-gripen-e/ukraina-uskoryaet-perexod-na-gripen-e-1.webp)

The Ukrainian Air Force is approaching a new stage of modernization. According to recent statements, pilot training for the latest Swedish Gripen E fighters is proceeding ahead of schedule. These combat aircraft are expected to appear in the skies of Ukraine soon.

### Accelerated training schedule

As reported by RBK-Ukraine citing an official statement by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the pilot training process is moving faster than originally planned. The head of state emphasized that Ukrainian pilots have demonstrated a high rate of adaptation to complex equipment, mastering modern air defense systems in record time.

Zelenskyy noted that over the past few years, Ukrainian pilots have already successfully mastered the operation of F-16 and Mirage fighters. Against the backdrop of this experience, some crews are currently undergoing specialized training in Sweden, preparing for the transition to new equipment.

### Plans to expand the fleet

"We will soon see 'Gripen' in the Ukrainian sky," the President stated. This confirms that the integration of new equipment into the combat composition of the Ukrainian Air Force is a priority task at the current stage.

Earlier reports indicated that, as part of agreements with Sweden, Ukraine plans to receive 150 Gripen combat aircraft. These figures correlate with Kyiv's earlier plans, which aimed to purchase between 120 and 150 of the latest fighters to significantly strengthen its aviation.

### Prospects for cooperation with France

In addition to the Swedish direction, Kyiv continues to hold active negotiations with French partners. The goal of these diplomatic efforts is to acquire Rafale fighters. The inclusion of French aircraft in the Ukrainian Air Force will be the next step in diversifying and strengthening the country's air fleet.