DefenseColombia confirms signing of agreement for Gripen fighters expected in September
The Colombian government has confirmed plans to sign an agreement to acquire Saab Gripen E/F fighter jets in September 2025, said the Defense Minister, Iván Velásquez, according to El Tiempo.
The new aircraft will replace the aging IAI Kfir fleet operated by the Colombian Air Force (FAC) for over four decades.
Colombia’s, said the deal is already in advanced stages in both technical negotiations and budgetary planning. If signed as expected, the first aircraft would be delivered within 16 to 18 months, depending on the agreed production schedule.
The announcement ends speculation that Colombia might consider alternative offers from other manufacturers, including reportedly from China.
A recent meeting between the presidents of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, and China, Xi Jinping, held in Beijing, brought up the Chengdu J-10CE fighter as a topic of discussion between the leaders of the two countries.
The minister also addressed concerns about the program’s transparency and clarified that the use of U.S.-made engines in the Gripen does not affect the aircraft’s exportability or operational continuity.
Deal could benefit Embraer
The contract will also include a comprehensive technology transfer package, involving joint participation from Colombia’s Ministry of Defense, the FAC, and Swedish manufacturer Saab, with the aim of developing local aerospace capabilities and advancing toward strategic autonomy.
Two Gripen aircraft from Brazil are expected to be showcased at the Colombian International Air Show in July as part of the program’s official presentation.
The acquisition is designed to ensure the FAC’s operational continuity, as the Kfir fleet nears the end of its service life, with increasing maintenance challenges and limited upgrade potential.
The agreement between Saab and Colombia could also benefit Embraer, since the production of the Gripen is expected to include the Brazilian company’s participation.
Of the 36 fighters ordered by the Brazilian Air Force, 15 will be assembled at the manufacturer’s facilities in Brazil.
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