Hungary receives two new Gripen fighters

Arrival of the initial two jets under a 2024 agreement signals incremental fleet growth and deeper industrial alignment with Saab

By Erik Holm

April 30, 2026 11:17 AM

The Hungarian Defence Forces have taken delivery of two Gripen C fighters, which will be operated by the 101st Aviation Wing at Kecskemét air base.

The delivery follows a contract signed in February 2024 between the Hungarian Ministry of Defence and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV).

The two aircraft are the first of four ordered under the agreement. Saab said the delivery reflects its commitment to meeting agreed timelines.

Lars Tossman, head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area, said Hungary’s long-term modernisation programme, alongside Saab’s planned investment in an aviation development centre in the country, would allow Budapest to play a greater role in the Gripen programme’s ongoing development and operation.

Once all aircraft are delivered, Hungary will operate a fleet of 18 Gripen C/D aircraft with the latest upgrades.

Hungary has operated Gripen fighters since 2006.

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