Saab expects to close deal with Thailand and Colombia for Gripen fighter jets by 2025
Saab celebrated the growth in interest in the Gripen E/F fighter jet and expects to finalize contracts with Thailand and Colombia by 2025.
The confirmation came from the company’s CEO, Micael Johansson, during the presentation of the first quarter results on Friday.
According to Johansson, negotiations with both countries are progressing well. “Last year, we were selected to negotiate with Thailand. We are in that process right now and I hope we can finalize it soon. My ambition is to conclude this contract by the end of this year,” he said.
In the case of Colombia, the selection of the Swedish proposal took place in April, and Saab is also seeking to shorten the schedule: “We are working to speed up this negotiation in the coming months.”
Exports to Colombia through Swedish credit
Amid discussions about the financing of the program, Johansson highlighted that the proposal for Colombia includes a credit solution through the Swedish Export Credit Corporation (SEK) and the state agency EKN.
The model allows the South American country to postpone part of the payments, without compromising Saab’s financial flow: “We will receive when we deliver the aircraft, as provided for in the contract.”
The Colombian Air Force has not yet confirmed the final number of aircraft, but it should be between 16 and 24 fighters that will replace the old Kfir.
In Asia, the Royal Thai Air Force has already operated 11 Gripen C/D fighters since 2011 and wants to expand its fleet with 12 Gripen E jets, which defeated the US F-16.
The initial budget for four aircraft has already been approved in the first instance, and the Thai government is now evaluating the formalization of the full contract.
Peru in negotiations for 12 Gripen
In addition to negotiations with Colombia, Saab confirmed that it is actively campaigning in Peru. Johansson stated that a formal proposal has already been submitted to the Peruvian government and that the company sees a good chance of success. “We are taking this campaign very seriously. Being present in Brazil and negotiating with Colombia creates an important strategic base in the region.”
To date, Saab has secured firm contracts to supply 36 Gripen E/F fighters to Brazil, eight of which are operational, in addition to 60 single-seat fighters for Sweden.
The company is also in talks with Canada and Portugal, which recently reconsidered their choice of the 5th generation F-35 fighter.
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