Saab, the Swedish defense company, is exploring the possibility of setting up Gripen fighter jets assembly operations in Canada to meet the increased demand from Ukraine swiftly. Saab’s CEO, Micael Johansson, indicated in recent interviews with financial media outlets that Kyiv’s interest in procuring over 100 Gripen fighter jets would necessitate doubling the company’s production capacity.
Reports from the Financial Times and Reuters revealed that Saab is contemplating expanding its production capabilities, potentially in Canada or other European locations. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly, speaking at the Canadian Aerospace Summit in Ottawa, expressed enthusiasm about this development, describing it as positive news. She mentioned engaging with Johansson earlier in the day to explore potential partnerships with Canada, starting with the GlobalEye surveillance plane and extending support to Ukraine.
The GlobalEye, a surveillance aircraft with long-range early warning capabilities, is a joint venture between Saab and Bombardier. Simon Carroll, president of Saab Canada, emphasized the significance of the Canadian aerospace industry as a crucial market to meet the rising global demand. He stated the company’s commitment to strengthening relationships with Canadian entities to support their programs and products for both domestic and export markets.
Saab aims to increase exports from Canada, enhance its operational footprint in the country, and expand assembly activities for the GlobalEye aircraft locally. The Gripen jets are currently assembled in Mississauga, Ontario, with final production stages completed in Sweden where the planes are equipped with radar and sensor systems.
While Sweden and Ukraine have signed a preliminary agreement for the potential export of up to 150 Gripens to Ukraine, no formal contract has been finalized yet. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is reportedly seeking to bolster the country’s mixed fleet of approximately 250 fighter aircraft, including F-16s, Gripens, and French Rafales. The Gripen aircraft are preferred for their ease of maintenance, ability to operate from roads, and quick crew training.
In parallel, Canada continues to deliberate over the planned acquisition of 88 F-35 fighter jets. Prime Minister Mark Carney initiated a review of the procurement deal amid global trade tensions under former U.S. President Donald Trump. The Department of National Defence has submitted a review report to the Prime Minister’s Office for consideration. Industry Minister Joly has not ruled out the possibility of a mixed fighter fleet, proposing the acquisition of a limited F-35 fleet alongside a separate fleet of Gripens.
The decision-making process emphasizes the importance of safeguarding Canadian sovereignty, while also weighing industrial advantages and job creation. High-level engagements between Canadian and Saab officials reflect the ongoing discussions surrounding the fighter jet procurement review. U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra has raised concerns about the potential costs associated with maintaining two separate fighter fleets, cautioning against the financial implications for Canada.