Gripen instead of F-35: Swedish Saab is in talks with Canada to sell its fighters

The CEO of Swedish defence company Saab, Mikael Johansson, has confirmed that his company is in talks with Canada over the potential sale of JAS-39E/F Gripen multi-role fighters.
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In a comment to Swedish media, he also noted that similar consultations are ongoing with Portugal and several Latin American countries.
This statement comes amid reports of Canada's possible revision of the contract for the purchase of 88 US F-35 Lightning II fighter jets signed in 2023 for a total of CAD 19 billion. Although the contract has not been cancelled, Ottawa has stated the need to reassess the arrangement due to concerns about over-reliance on the US.

Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighter jet. Illustration: Saab
Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair has publicly acknowledged that the current political climate in the United States, as well as recurring trade tensions, are a concern. The government does not rule out operating a mixed fighter fleet as an option.
Against this background, Saab is actively promoting the Gripen as a reliable European alternative to the F-35, promising deep industrial cooperation and technology transfer. The successful conclusion of the contract with Colombia has further strengthened the company's position in the global defence market.
The Canadian fighter fleet renewal programme was launched in 2017. At the initial stage, Lockheed Martin (F-35), Boeing (F/A-18E/F), Dassault (Rafale), Eurofighter and Saab took part in the competition. In 2018, Dassault withdrew due to technical requirements, and Boeing dropped out in 2021. The F-35 was announced the winner in 2022, and the contract was signed the following year.
Source: Defence Industry Europe