DefenseSaab confirms sale of 17 Gripen E/F fighters to Colombia for €3.1 billion
Hours after rumors about the agreement circulated in the Colombian media, Saab confirmed on Friday that it has signed a contract with the Government of Colombia for the supply of 17 Gripen E/F fighters, worth €3.1 billion, with deliveries scheduled between 2026 and 2032.
The agreement provides for 15 units of the single-seat Gripen E and two of the two-seat Gripen F, in addition to equipment, armaments, training, and associated services.
This is the second country to opt for the two-seat version of the fighter, after Brazil. However, the Gripen F has not yet had any units completed by the Swedish manufacturer.
In addition to the sale of the aircraft, two compensation agreements are included, covering military and social projects, expanding cooperation between the parties beyond the supply of the aircraft.
According to Saab, the compensation projects involve industrial collaboration in sectors such as aerospace, cybersecurity, health, sustainable energy, and water purification technology.
“I am honored that Colombia has chosen Gripen E/F to enhance its air defence capabilities and delighted to welcome Colombia into the Gripen family,” said Micael Johansson, president and CEO of Saab.
Indecision and hasty choice of the Rafale
The signing of the agreement comes after years of indecision regarding the aircraft that will succeed the IAI Kfir fighters, already beyond their useful life in the Colombian Air Force.
The government of the country had been evaluating a solution for air defense for quite some time, and the current president Gustavo Petro even announced the choice of the Dassault Rafale fighter as soon as he took office.
However, the Colombian Ministry of Defense intended to make acquisitions in batches, starting with only four jets, which was denied by the French manufacturer.
The selection then returned to square one, reassessing not only the Rafale but also the F-16 and Gripen NG. Petro’s troubled relations with US President Donald Trump may have complicated Lockheed Martin’s proposal, although the Gripen uses an engine and components manufactured in the US.
Colombia becomes officially the fourth operator of the new generation Gripen after Brazil (36 jets), Sweden (60 fighters), and Thailand, which closed an initial order for four aircraft.
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