Embraer and Saab announce in Farnborough a framework for the production of 20 additional Gripen fighters.

Embraer and Saab announced during the Farnborough International Airshow a framework for the production of 20 additional JAS-39 Gripen fighters at Embraer’s facilities in São Paulo, Brazil.

Quick Overview

Parties: Swedish Saab and Brazilian Embraer.
Scope: Framework for the production of 20 additional Gripen fighters in Brazil.
Location: Embraer’s Gaviao Peixoto facility.
Context: Expansion of the Gripen E/F program for the Brazilian Air Force.
Significance: Deepening local assembly and technology transfer in Latin America.

Announcement Details

The framework opens the door for an additional batch of 20 aircraft above Brazil’s current purchases, to be produced locally. Embraer conducts final assembly and testing at Gaviao Peixoto, and the agreement is designed to keep this industrial base operational for a longer period.

The Saab-Embraer partnership dates back to the F-X2 program launched by Brazil in 2014, under which the single-seat Gripen E and the two-seat Gripen F (referred to as F-39 in Brazil) entered service, with technology transfer and local production at its core.

System Context

The Gripen E/F is classified as a 4.5 generation fighter with an AESA radar, advanced electronic warfare suite, and the capability to carry the Meteor beyond-visual-range missile. Its low operational cost and ability to operate from short runways make it attractive to medium-sized air forces.

Additionally, Brazilian production builds a foundation for potential Gripen exports throughout Latin America, especially after Colombia’s selection of it.

Why It Matters

The Gripen export model, supported by local production, provides a competitive template in the fighter market targeted by Turkey with its Hurjet and Kaan aircraft, at a time when technology transfer and local assembly are decisive in export competitions.