DefenseSaab confirms talks for Gripen fighter production in Canada
Saab CEO Micael Johansson confirmed on November 16 that the company is negotiating with the Canadian federal government and Bombardier over the potential production of Gripen fighters in Canada, according to The Globe and Mail.
The discussions aim to create 10,000 jobs and establish a research network for additional aircraft, including drones. Saab is seeking partnerships to enable technology transfer and expand Gripen production capacity, following its recent agreement with Ukraine for 100 to 150 aircraft.
“If Canada wants to build sovereign capabilities, not just buy aircraft, we are prepared to make this technology transfer to Canada,” Johansson said.
Talks are scheduled to continue between November 18 and 20 during the visit of King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden to Canada. The company and Bombardier are reviewing possible sites for Gripen assembly, as current facilities lack sufficient capacity.
Canada has placed an order for 88 F-35 fighters from Lockheed Martin but has only paid for 16 units. A senior official in Ottawa raised concerns about potential US retaliation if the remainder of the F-35 order is canceled.
“We are not looking for customers, we are looking for partners,” said Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson. Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Vic Fedeli, indicated that incentives could be considered if necessary.
Saab already collaborates closely with Bombardier, notably on the GlobalEye surveillance jet, which uses Bombardier business jets as its platform.
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