DefenseColombian President Gustavo Petro announced on Wednesday that the Saab Gripen E will be the country’s next fighter, replacing the IAI Kfir.
The announcement was made alongside the Swedish ambassador, Helena Storm, and Saab CEO Micael Johansson.
However, Petro did not reveal the number of aircraft that will be acquired, as well as the schedule, since a letter of intent related to the strategic defense of the Latin country was signed by the Swedish government.
“We are committed to peacebuilding, economic development, sustainable development and climate change. Sweden is also committed to developing this agreement, which will be signed in the coming months,” said Storm.
Assembly in Brazil?
The Gripen had been announced by a Swedish radio station last year, but at the time there was no confirmation from the parties.
Colombia was also evaluating the Lockheed Martin F-16 and the Dassault Rafale, the latter of which was chosen by Petro years ago, but there was no agreement with the French manufacturer.
With the Colombian decision, neighboring Brazil may benefit since the country has an assembly line at Embraer’s facilities in partnership with Saab.
It is understood that Colombia may receive something like 20 Gripen fighters.
