In a significant move to bolster its air defense capabilities, Sweden has awarded a major contract to Saab worth 4 billion krona (approximately $360 million). This agreement aims to extend the maintenance and support of Sweden’s Gripen C/D and Gripen E fighter jet fleet.
The latest contract expands upon an initial agreement established in 2020, which created a multiyear framework for the maintenance, system upgrades, and logistical support of the Gripen aircraft. Under the new terms, Saab will deliver continued system support, spare parts, and component repair services, along with comprehensive training for pilots and technicians over the period from 2026 to 2027. There are options to prolong this support through 2029.
Key aspects of the agreement include ongoing software maintenance and mission system updates designed to ensure the Gripen fighters remain responsive to evolving operational requirements. Saab emphasized that this extension is crucial for sustaining the existing Gripen C/D fleet while simultaneously laying the groundwork for the integration of the more advanced Gripen E model.
The contract was officially signed with Sweden’s defense procurement agency, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the nation’s air fleet capabilities while ensuring that most of the work is carried out domestically. This approach supports local employment in critical sectors such as avionics, logistics, and systems integration.
This renewed support for the Gripen program aligns with Sweden’s broader efforts to strengthen its air force amid increasing security tensions in Northern Europe. In addition to the new contract, Stockholm has previously initiated upgrades to older Gripen C/D aircraft, incorporating advanced mission systems, enhancing electronic warfare capabilities, and updating ground support equipment to extend their operational lifespan.
As the Gripen E program continues to advance, Saab is ramping up production and preparing for deliveries, not only to Sweden but also to export customers, including Brazil. Furthermore, the Swedish Air Force is expanding its base infrastructure and improving dispersal capabilities, which now include the use of road bases for rapid redeployment during crises, ensuring that Sweden remains prepared to meet any security challenges that may arise.
