Russia and Ukraine flashpoint

[shavenferret]

Ukraine is expected to significantly bolster its air defense and strike capabilities next year with an array of advanced Western and domestic weapons systems, marking a pivotal moment in its ongoing defense against Russian aggression
Defense Express reported the information.

Swedish Gripen fighter jets
Among the most significant additions are up to 14 Swedish Gripen C/D fighter jets, which Ukraine anticipates receiving in 2026. Sweden finalized the number of aircraft component kits for transfer back in 2024, and these jets will come equipped with Meteor air-to-air missiles—the West's longest-range aerial combat weapon with a reach of up to 125 miles. This capability surpasses what Ukraine's current F-16 and Mirage 2000-5 fleets can deliver.

Saab 340 AEW&C early warning aircraft
The Swedish package also includes two Saab 340 AEW&C early warning aircraft, first announced in May 2024 but delayed due to ongoing modernization work. These radar planes are crucial for detecting low-altitude threats like drones and cruise missiles, and will enable Ukrainian fighters to fully exploit their long-range missiles through enhanced targeting data. Their delivery may be coordinated with the arrival of the Gripen fighters to ensure compatibility.

French SAMP/T NG air defense system
France plans to supply Ukraine with its first SAMP/T NG air defense system in 2026, potentially one of the prototype units recently tested in December 2024. This represents Europe's most advanced ground-based air defense platform, designed specifically to intercept ballistic missile threats—a critical capability as Ukraine faces continued missile bombardment.

Ukrainian FP-7 and FP-9 ballistic missiles
On the domestic front, Ukrainian defense manufacturers are preparing to field new long-range strike weapons. Fire Point's FP-7 ballistic missile, with a 125-mile range and 330-pound warhead, completed certification by year-end 2025 and should begin deliveries to Ukrainian forces in early 2026. A more powerful FP-9 missile, boasting a 530-mile range and 1,760-pound warhead, is expected to complete testing by mid-2026.

U.S. ERAM cruise missiles
Additionally, Ukraine will receive approximately 3,350 extended-range cruise missiles through the U.S. ERAM program, funded by an $825 million commitment from

Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway. These weapons—the Rusty Dagger and RAACM systems—can strike targets up to 250 miles away at roughly $246,000 per unit, making them a cost-effective option for Ukraine's long-range strike needs. With Norwegian defense giant Kongsberg acquiring a 90% stake in one of the manufacturers in December 2025, supply volumes could potentially increase beyond initial projections.

These weapons deliveries represent a substantial enhancement to Ukraine's ability to defend its airspace and strike strategic targets, potentially altering the military balance as the conflict continues into its third year.




https://global.espreso.tv/military-news-ukraine-anticipates-game-changing-weapons-systems-in-2026

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Missiles!