“The sale of JAS Gripen to Colombia is one of Sweden’s largest ever export deals. This deal will strengthen Sweden’s security and economy, and demonstrates the clear link between trade and security,” says Dousa. The aircraft is noted for combining advanced technology with simplicity and flexibility, and for its operational use in several countries and environments.
Minister for Defence Pål Jonson underlined the strategic value of Colombia selecting the Gripen platform. “This is clear evidence of the competitiveness of Sweden’s defence industry and high-tech capability. In Gripen, Colombia is getting one of the world’s most advanced combat aircraft. I look forward to deepening our defence policy cooperation,” says Minister for Defence Pål Jonson.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard welcomed the development as an extension of long-standing relations between the two countries. “Sweden and Colombia enjoy excellent relations that go back a long way. I look forward to continuing to strengthen and expand the cooperation between our two countries,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard.
Sweden marked 150 years of diplomatic relations with Colombia in 2024 and signed a bilateral partnership the same year. Sweden also has a memorandum of understanding with Colombia on defence cooperation, and the government said Colombia’s entry into the Gripen user community would further enhance this partnership.
Jonson visited Colombia in July to meet his counterpart and attend the F-AIR aeronautic fair, where Sweden was guest of honour. Two Gripen E aircraft participated in the air display with support from the Brazilian Air Force.
Malmer Stenergard visited Colombia in January to take part in the first high-level dialogue under the bilateral partnership framework. Sweden said the Gripen agreement built on these recent engagements and would reinforce defence policy cooperation going forward.
Source: Swedish Ministry of Defence.
