Saab CEO confirms Gripen fighter talks with Canada amid ongoing review of F-35 deal

The announcement comes as Canada reconsiders its 2023 decision to purchase 88 US-made F-35 Lightning II jets in a deal valued at 19 billion Canadian dollars. Although the F-35 contract has not been cancelled, the Canadian government has publicly stated it is re-evaluating the acquisition due to growing concerns about reliance on the United States.

Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair recently expressed apprehension about the country’s level of dependence on Washington, particularly in light of political uncertainty and recent trade tensions. He indicated that Ottawa is assessing alternative options, including the possibility of operating a mixed fleet of fighter aircraft.

According to the Swedish press interview, Saab is positioning the Gripen as a reliable and independent European alternative, offering local industrial cooperation, technology transfer, and full compliance with Canada’s defence obligations under NORAD. Saab’s recent success in securing a contract with Colombia has also strengthened its position in the international market.

Canada’s fighter jet procurement programme began in 2017 and initially attracted bids from Lockheed Martin (F-35), Boeing (F/A-18E/F), Dassault (Rafale), Eurofighter, and Saab (Gripen). Dassault withdrew from the process in 2018 due to Canadian requirements, and Boeing was eliminated in 2021. The F-35 was officially selected in 2022, with a contract signed in early 2023.