Ukrainian interest in acquiring Western fighter jets continues to grow, with the Swedish JAS-39 Gripen emerging as a strong candidate.
Enhance Air Capabilities
Anatolij Chrapczyński, a former Ukrainian military pilot, asserts that these aircraft could significantly enhance Ukraine's air capabilities due to their unique features not found in models like the F-16.
Ukraine first expressed interest in the JAS-39 Gripen several years ago, but discussions intensified after the onset of full-scale conflict with Russia. Initially, Kyiv opted for F-16 fighters after consultations with allies, according to WP.
However, with these jets now in Ukraine, there is renewed consideration for other aircraft, particularly the French Mirage and the Gripen.
Less Infrastructure Required
Chrapczyński emphasized the advantages of the Gripen, highlighting its cost-effectiveness.
The aircraft requires less infrastructure and personnel for maintenance, making it more accessible for Ukraine. Notably, the Gripen can take off from shorter runways and even highways, needing only a stretch of road approximately 800 meters (about 2,625 feet) long. This capability enhances Ukraine's tactical flexibility in the ongoing conflict.
The JAS-39 Gripen features a delta wing design and has a length of around 46 feet. It can reach speeds up to Mach 2 (approximately 2,130 km/h or 1,324 mph) and operate at altitudes of up to 59,055 feet.
Its primary armament includes a Mauser BK-27 27 mm cannon, but it can also carry a variety of missiles, including the AIM-9 Sidewinder and AGM-65 Maverick.
