If completed, the transaction would represent a 25% increase on Brazil’s original order. The Brazilian Air Force’s planned Gripen fleet would grow from 36 to 56 aircraft.
The additional aircraft would accelerate the replacement of Brazil’s ageing F-5 fighters. They would also strengthen Brazil’s ability to defend the country’s extensive territory.
The plan to expand Brazil’s Gripen acquisition was disclosed after two important milestones in the existing programme. In March 2026, assembly of the first Gripen E was completed at Embraer’s facilities in Brazil.
On 2 June, the first two-seat Gripen F intended for the Brazilian Air Force was presented in Sweden. The aircraft is part of Brazil’s existing Gripen programme with Saab.
The newly purchased aircraft would probably be mostly assembled in Brazil, according to the article. This would strengthen the country’s aerospace and defence industry, as well as the wider economy.
One initiative being considered during negotiations is the creation of an innovation centre in Brazil focused on the Gripen programme. The centre would support development of the aircraft, maintenance technologies, support systems, software development and mission planning systems.
