Ottawa, February 6 - Saab has recently provided detailed information on its Gripen E fighter jet to Canadian officials as part of an active campaign promoting a dual fleet configuration for the Royal Canadian Air Force. This approach would see Canada operate a mix of Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighters alongside the Swedish-built Gripen, addressing concerns about over-reliance on a single supplier amid evolving geopolitical dynamics. Saab CEO Micael Johansson highlighted during an investor call that Ottawa is exploring options to maintain greater strategic autonomy in its fighter fleet, with the Gripen positioned as a complementary platform to the F-35. The company has shared specifics on technology transfer timelines, production ramp-up capabilities, and the establishment of a potential manufacturing hub in Canada to support both domestic needs and broader export opportunities.
The Saab Gripen proposal emphasizes the aircraft's operational strengths, including high availability rates, adaptability in dispersed operations, and proven performance in harsh cold-weather environments suitable for Canada's vast northern territories. Designed as a modern multirole fighter, the Gripen E features advanced sensors such as an active electronically scanned array radar, infrared search and track systems, and compatibility with a wide range of weapons. Its lower operational costs and ability to operate from short runways or improvised airstrips offer logistical advantages for Arctic patrols and rapid response scenarios. By integrating the Gripen into a dual fleet structure, Canada could achieve greater combat mass while balancing high-end stealth capabilities with cost-effective, flexible platforms.
Central to Saab's pitch is a compelling industrial and economic package aimed at revitalizing Canada's aerospace sector. The company has outlined plans for local assembly, maintenance, and upgrades of the Gripen, potentially in partnership with established firms like Bombardier, which could create thousands of high-skilled jobs and foster long-term sovereign capacity in fighter aircraft production. This includes transferring technology to enable Canadian involvement in manufacturing and even contributing to global Gripen export markets. Such benefits align with Ottawa's priorities for economic returns from major defense procurements, positioning the Gripen as a "Made-in-Canada" solution that enhances national industrial resilience.
While no final decision has been reached on Canada's Future Fighter Capability Project, Saab's proactive sharing of detailed Gripen data underscores its commitment to addressing Ottawa's strategic and budgetary considerations. The dual fleet concept represents a potential shift from the original plan to acquire 88 F-35 jets exclusively, offering a diversified approach that combines advanced stealth with agile, affordable multirole fighters. As discussions continue, the proposal highlights opportunities for enhanced defense sovereignty, industrial growth, and operational flexibility in meeting Canada's airpower requirements.