Saab, the Swedish defense company, is exploring the possibility of setting up an assembly plant for Gripen fighter jets in Canada to meet the increased demand from Ukraine. Saab’s CEO, Micael Johansson, stated in recent interviews that Kyiv’s interest in acquiring over 100 Gripen fighter jets would require the company to double its production capacity. Reports from the Financial Times and Reuters indicate that Saab is considering expanding its production capacity in Canada or other European locations.
During the Canadian Aerospace Summit in Ottawa, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly expressed enthusiasm about the news and mentioned her discussions with Johansson earlier that day. She highlighted the positive outlook for partnerships between Saab and Canada, particularly in relation to the GlobalEye surveillance plane.
Simon Carroll, president of Saab Canada, emphasized the significance of the Canadian aerospace industry as a vital market for supporting the growing global demand. Saab is actively building relationships with Canadian companies to enhance its programs and products for both the domestic and export markets.
The assembly of Gripen fighter jets currently takes place in Mississauga, Ontario, with final production stages completed in Sweden. Last week, Sweden and Ukraine signed a letter of intent for a potential deal involving the export of up to 150 Gripens to Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy aims to develop a mixed fleet of approximately 250 fighter aircraft, including Gripens, F-16s, and French Rafales.
In parallel, Canada is deliberating the purchase of 88 F-35 fighter jets, with Prime Minister Mark Carney ordering a review of the procurement deal amid global trade tensions. The government’s review of the F-35 program is ongoing, considering factors such as national security, economic benefits, and job creation. Industry Minister Joly and Defense Procurement Secretary Stephen Fuhr have been actively engaged in discussions regarding the potential acquisition of a mixed fighter fleet for Canada.
U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra has raised concerns about the feasibility and costs associated with maintaining two separate fighter fleets in Canada. However, Saab and Canadian officials are optimistic about the potential collaboration and economic benefits that could arise from the assembly of Gripen jets in Canada.