The proposed collaboration would give CAE a central role in establishing and operating a Canadian-based training ecosystem for Gripen pilots and technicians. The work would include advanced pilot training, simulator operations, technical training and sustainment services.
The companies also plan to explore mission systems development and sustainment in Canada. Saab would bring Gripen platform expertise, while CAE would contribute training, simulation and operational support capabilities.
“This agreement reflects a shared commitment to supporting Canada’s long-term defence readiness, and we’re proud to serve Canada’s men and women in uniform through world-class training, simulation, and mission systems support,” said Matthew Bromberg, CAE President and CEO. “Our collaboration with Saab can help strengthen Canada’s future fighter capability while creating meaningful opportunities for Canadian engineers, technicians, and aviation professionals.”
The agreement reflects an effort to connect a potential fighter acquisition with domestic training infrastructure, skilled employment and long-term support capacity. For Canada, such arrangements would be aimed at keeping more operational knowledge and sustainment expertise inside the country.
“Saab’s approach has always been to build real capability in the countries where we operate,” said Micael Johansson, CEO of Saab. “Through this partnership with CAE, we would establish a world-class training and mission support capability in Canada, creating highly skilled jobs while ensuring critical knowledge, expertise, and operational data remain in Canadian hands.”
The MoU also covers research and development work focused on next-generation capabilities. CAE and Saab said the cooperation is intended to support innovation, operational effectiveness and long-term readiness.
Beyond a possible Canadian Gripen programme, the agreement could open wider opportunities for the two companies. CAE and Saab said they may also explore Gripen-related training, mission support and sustainment work in international markets.
