Brazilian Gripen NG contract signed

Today the Gripen NG programme reached a historical milestone. With all contracts signed, the biggest export deal in the history of Saab has now been finalised which means that the Brazilian Gripen NG programme moves in to the next phase.

When Brazil and Saab signed the contract for Gripen NG in October 2014 it was stated that it would come into effect once certain conditions had been fulfilled. Today, we are happy to announce that all required conditions are in place, marking the formal start of the Brazilian Gripen NG programme.
“Our partnership with the Brazilian industry strengthens Saab's position in Latin America and also supports our strategy of growth through industrial partnerships”, says Ulf Nilsson, Head of Business Area Aeronautics, Saab.

Together with our Brazilian partners we are now taking the next steps and moving full speed ahead to construct and deliver the thirty six Gripen aircraft to the Brazilian Air Force.

More than aircraft

The co-operation between Brazil and Sweden encompasses much more than  the aircraft. It includes comprehensive industrial co-operation between the countries in areas such as research and development and transfer of technology which will be performed over approximately ten years.
“The acquisition of Gripen NG will provide benefits beyond the enlargement of the Brazilian Air Force operational capacity. In addition to equipping FAB with one of the world's most modern fighters, the participation in the development of Gripen NG’s project means a technological breakthrough for Brazilian industry", says Lieutenant-Brigadier Nivaldo Luiz Rossato, Commander of the Brazilian Air Force.

Through an extensive technology transfer programme, involving Brazil’s leading defence and aerospace companies, some 350 Brazilian engineers and technicians and their families will travel to Sweden for education and on-the-job-training. Through this programme they will gain experience and develop the competence for developing, producing and maintaining the Gripen fighter. Saab’s own staff will also go to Brazil to assist in setting up the operations in country. The technology transfer programme will contribute to the development of an independent, advanced defence industrial base in Brazil.
The Gripen NG will be delivered to the Brazilian Air Force between 2019 and 2024.