Saab, the Swedish defense company, is contemplating Canada as a potential location for assembling Gripen fighter jets to meet the increasing demand from Ukraine. Saab’s CEO, Micael Johansson, revealed in recent discussions with financial news outlets that Ukraine’s interest in acquiring over 100 Gripen fighter jets would necessitate doubling the company’s production requirements.
Reports from the Financial Times and Reuters indicate that Johansson mentioned the company is exploring options to expand production capacity, with Canada or other European locations being potential choices. During the Canadian Aerospace Summit in Ottawa, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly expressed enthusiasm about the news, mentioning her earlier conversation with Johansson.
The Global Eye, a surveillance aircraft developed jointly by Saab and Bombardier, plays a crucial role in the discussions. Simon Carroll, president of Saab Canada, emphasized the importance of Canada’s aerospace industry as a key market to support the rising global demand. He highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships with Canadian firms to enhance program support and product development both domestically and internationally.
The assembly of Gripen planes currently takes place in Mississauga, Ontario, with final production stages completed in Sweden. While Saab previously aimed to secure a contract with Ottawa for Gripen jets, it ultimately lost to Lockheed Martin and its F-35 fighters. However, a recent letter of intent between Sweden and Ukraine signals a potential export deal involving up to 150 Gripens for Ukraine’s mixed fleet strategy, which also includes F-16s and French Rafales.
In parallel developments, Canada continues to deliberate its planned acquisition of 88 F-35 fighter jets. Prime Minister Mark Carney initiated a review of the procurement deal amid global trade uncertainties. Industry Minister Joly has not ruled out the possibility of a mixed fighter fleet, suggesting a potential combination of F-35s and Gripens. The government’s decision-making process emphasizes the importance of safeguarding Canadian sovereignty, economic benefits, and job creation.
Saab’s interactions with Canadian officials and stakeholders highlight the growing cooperation between the two countries in the aerospace sector. While discussions on fighter jet acquisitions continue, the evolving geopolitical landscape and national security considerations remain at the forefront of decision-making processes.
