Colombia has finalized a landmark defence agreement worth €3.1 billion ($3.6 billion) to purchase 17 Saab Gripen E/F fighter jets, marking one of the country’s biggest military aviation upgrades in decades. The deal was officially confirmed on Friday by Swedish defence company Saab.
Under the agreement, Colombia will receive 15 single-seat Gripen E jets and two dual-seat Gripen F aircraft, along with advanced weapons systems, training, and support equipment. Deliveries are scheduled between 2026 and 2032, according to Saab’s announcement.
Colombia Chooses Gripen Over Competing U.S.-Backed F-16 Offer
The decision to select the Swedish-made Gripen was made in April, but the total cost and fleet size were finalized only now. Saab’s offer ultimately prevailed over a U.S.-supported proposal for F-16 fighters.
Saab President and CEO Micael Johansson praised Colombia’s choice, stating that the agreement marks “the beginning of a strong and long-term partnership” aimed at boosting the country’s defence capabilities and technological advancement.
Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson also welcomed the deal, noting that Colombia will now operate “one of the world’s greatest fighter jets.”
Colombian President Petro Emphasizes National Security
Colombian President Gustavo Petro shared a translated statement on X, highlighting the strategic significance of the new fighter fleet. “We are moving forward, and we must maintain this pace. At this pace, no one will dare to threaten us, neither from outside nor inside the country,” he said. Petro has recently exchanged sharp remarks with U.S. President Donald Trump amid increasing U.S. military activity in the region.
Industrial Cooperation to Boost Colombia’s Technology Sector
As part of the agreement, Saab and the Colombian government signed two industrial offset packages, which will support collaboration in areas such as:
- Aeronautics
- Cybersecurity
- Health technology
- Sustainable energy
- Water purification systems
These offset deals aim to strengthen Colombia’s industrial and technological capabilities as it deepens defence ties with Sweden.
Gripen Fleet Expands Across Latin America
Colombia becomes the second Latin American nation—after Brazil—to operate the Gripen fighter. Brazil has 36 jets on order and hosts an assembly facility, though it remains unclear whether Colombia’s aircraft will also be manufactured there.
Saab continues to grow its Gripen customer base worldwide. Recent agreements include a $550 million contract with Thailand for four jets and a pending procurement deal between Ukraine and Sweden that could involve 100–150 Gripen E fighters. Negotiations with Peru are also ongoing.
