Saab Unveils First Gripen F Fighter Jet in Collaboration with Brazil
On June 2, 2026, Saab proudly showcased the inaugural Gripen F fighter jet, marking a significant milestone in its collaboration with the Brazilian defense industry. This advanced two-seat fighter was revealed during a ceremony held at Saab's facilities in Linköping, Sweden. Developed as part of an extensive partnership, the Gripen F is designed to both accelerate pilot training and elevate operational performance within the Brazilian Air Force.
The Gripen F is not merely an aircraft; it symbolizes a culmination of joint efforts in defense technology and industrial cooperation. As the first major customer, Brazil played a pivotal role in its development, resulting in profound industrial participation and enhancing Brazil’s own defense capabilities. This partnership's impact is seen in the form of a comprehensive transfer-of-technology program, which has effectively trained hundreds of Brazilian engineers and technicians, fostering a robust national industrial ecosystem.
Lars Tossman, head of Saab's Aeronautics division, expressed pride in this achievement, stating, "The rollout of Gripen F represents a shared achievement between Saab, Brazilian industry, and the Brazilian Air Force, reflecting the deep trust we have built together over many years." This sentiment underscores the success of a collaboration that aims to deliver cutting-edge military capabilities to Brazil.
Engineered for the rapidly evolving landscape of modern warfare, the Gripen F combines state-of-the-art performance with advanced sensors and a revolutionary architecture, reflecting its single-seat counterpart, Gripen E. One of its standout features is the fully independent second cockpit, which allows instructor-led missions in a fully operational fighter. This innovation enables real-time training for aspiring pilots under mission conditions, dramatically reducing traditional preparation time while enhancing effectiveness in combat scenarios.
Following the rollout, the Gripen F will undergo a dedicated flight test campaign at Saab’s Flight Test Centre in Sweden before being formally delivered to the Brazilian Air Force. As part of a contract established in 2014 between Saab and the Brazilian government, this agreement includes the development and production of a total of 36 aircraft, comprising 28 Gripen Es and 8 Gripen Fs. To date, deliveries have commenced, with 11 aircraft already handed over, marking significant progress in this defense initiative. Moreover, Saab is set to deliver additional Gripen F models to Thailand and Colombia, further extending its influence in international defense markets.
The introduction of the Gripen F not only signifies an enhancement in Brazil’s military capabilities but also illustrates how international partnerships can lead to innovative solutions in defense. As Saab continues to push the boundaries of technology and security, the Gripen F stands as a testament to the power of collaboration across borders in achieving shared defense goals. Furthermore, this move reinforces Saab's commitment to creating a safer and more sustainable world through advanced aeronautics. They operate with a strong workforce of 28,000 individuals across the globe, dedicated to maintaining high standards in military technology.
In conclusion, the rollout of the Gripen F marks a new chapter in Brazil's defense strategy, promising enhanced training, operational efficiency, and international cooperation. This step forward not only strengthens Brazil's air force but also positions Saab as a leader in modern defense solutions, paving the way for future technological advancements while fostering an environment of collaborative growth.