Saab's Gripen Fighter Jets Offer to Colombia and Peru

By Gabriel Araujo

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Saab has made an offer to Colombia for the proposed purchase of an undisclosed number of Gripen fighter jets. The CEO of the Swedish defense firm stated that they are also exploring a potential deal for the sale of these jets to Peru.

A Swedish public radio station reported that Colombia is considering the purchase of JAS Gripen jets manufactured by Saab, which operates a production line in Brazil.

Micael Johansson, CEO of Saab, commented, "We have offered sort of a full-fledged offer to them. They are evaluating that and now we are waiting for the response. I think we have a good offer, but it's of course not ever without competition."

Recently, Brazil agreed to increase its order of 36 JAS 39 Gripen fighters by 25%. This deal includes the selection of Brazilian planemaker Embraer's C-390 military cargo aircraft for its fleet. The letter of intent was signed by Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson and Brazilian Minister Jose Mucio.

Johansson described this development as "extremely good news" for Saab. The expansion is expected to allow more Gripens to be assembled at Embraer's Gaviao Peixoto plant in Sao Paulo, where a joint production line was established last year.

Initially, the agreement outlined production of 15 aircraft in Brazil. Saab and Embraer plan to establish the Gaviao Peixoto plant as a major production hub for the fighter jets in Latin America, facilitating sales and exports.

In 2023, it was reported that Brazil was contemplating further purchases of Gripen fighters, while Saab is targeting Colombia and Peru to enhance sales in South America.

Johansson highlighted, "It makes sense to work from this hub in Brazil if we have the opportunity to also convince Colombia and Peru about selecting the Gripen." He added that Colombia's sales campaign is more advanced, although Peru remains an intriguing market due to its stated budget for acquisitions.

Saab shares rose approximately 4% in Stockholm following these announcements.