Stockholm, December 22 - Swedish defense giant Saab has formally submitted ambitious proposals to the Canadian government for local production of its advanced JAS 39 Gripen fighter jet and GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft. This bold initiative promises to generate over 12,600 high-skilled jobs in Canada's aerospace sector, marking a potential resurgence for domestic military aircraft manufacturing. The plan allocates approximately 9,000 positions to Gripen assembly and sustainment, while 3,600 would support full GlobalEye production, leveraging partnerships with Canadian firms like Bombardier, whose Global 6500 business jet forms the platform for the surveillance system.
Saab's offer emphasizes comprehensive technology transfer, enabling Canada to achieve greater sovereignty in defense capabilities amid ongoing reviews of the Future Fighter Capability Project. Although Ottawa has committed to an initial 16 F-35 jets from Lockheed Martin out of a planned 88, the Swedish proposal positions the Gripen as a cost-effective, interoperable alternative with lower operating costs and rapid upgrade potential. Saab CEO Micael Johansson has stressed the company's readiness to establish assembly lines and research centers in Canada, potentially producing aircraft not only for the Royal Canadian Air Force but also for export markets, including Ukraine's expressed interest in the platform.
This development aligns with Canada's push for industrial benefits and economic resilience, particularly as manufacturing sectors face challenges from international trade dynamics. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly has described the Saab Gripen and GlobalEye bid as highly attractive for its job-creation and sovereignty aspects, highlighting collaborations that could integrate advanced radar systems and mission suites domestically. By shifting production to Canada, Saab argues the country would secure long-term supply chain control and high-value engineering roles.
The proposal represents a strategic opportunity to bolster Canada's defense industry, fostering innovation in fighter jets and surveillance technology while addressing employment needs in aerospace hubs. As deliberations continue, Saab's vision for Canadian-built Gripen and GlobalEye production underscores a partnership poised to enhance national security and economic growth for decades to come.