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Colombia Set to Finalize Major Contract with Saab for Gripen Fighters.
Colombia is taking a decisive step toward modernizing its air fleet by committing to the purchase of JAS Gripen fighter jets from Saab, a leading Swedish defense company. According to reports from Ekot, the Swedish public radio news service, this purchase agreement, though not yet officially confirmed, is on the verge of finalization. This acquisition, valued at 35 billion Swedish crowns (SEK), or approximately 3 billion euros, aims to equip the Colombian Air Force (FAC) with modern fighters to replace its aging fleet of Kfir aircraft, which has become a significant financial burden for the country’s defense budget.
Negotiations have advanced due to the collaboration between Sweden and Brazil, Saab’s strategic partner in South America, which has facilitated financing—a critical factor for budget-constrained Colombia (Picture source: Saab)
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is a single-engine multi-role fighter developed by the Swedish company Saab to replace the Saab 35 Draken and 37 Viggen in the Swedish Air Force. Built to meet the demands of modern aerial combat, the Gripen incorporates an advanced aerodynamic design with a delta wing and close-coupled canards, offering exceptional maneuverability and optimized takeoff and landing performance. Its triplex digital fly-by-wire control system enhances stability and responsiveness. The aircraft is powered by a Volvo Aero RM12 turbofan, derived from General Electric’s F404, allowing a maximum speed of Mach 2 and an extended operational range. The modern cockpit, equipped with three multifunction color displays and a HOTAS (Hands-On-Throttle-And-Stick) system, improves situational awareness and pilot efficiency.
The Gripen is available in multiple variants to meet different air force requirements. The initial JAS 39A and two-seater B versions were followed by the NATO-compatible JAS 39C and D, with extended armament and electronics capabilities, including in-flight refueling. The latest version, the Gripen E/F, offers significant enhancements, such as increased fuel capacity, advanced avionics, and a higher payload. The Gripen’s versatile armament includes an internal 27 mm Mauser cannon and the capacity to carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, as well as guided bombs. Its PS-05/A pulse-Doppler radar, developed in collaboration with Ericsson and GEC-Marconi, ensures simultaneous detection and tracking of multiple targets under varied weather conditions. Integrated electronic warfare systems and secure data links further enhance its operational effectiveness in hostile environments.
Both local and international media have previously reported that the Colombian government was considering this acquisition due to the age of its current Israeli-made Kfir fleet. While the Kfir has served effectively over many years, it has become costly to maintain, with upkeep costs exceeding $25,000 per flight hour. To address this, the FAC had to dismantle six aircraft to use as spare parts. Colombia is now looking to replace its aging Kfir fleet with Saab’s multirole Gripen fighter, currently showcased in full scale at ExpoDefensa 2023. This strategic choice addresses the Colombian Air Force's urgent need for modernization. The Gripen, known for its flexibility, electronic warfare capabilities, and low operating costs, presents an attractive solution for Colombia. Beyond its performance, Saab proposes a technology partnership involving local collaborations with Colombian institutions, promising long-term economic benefits for the country.
Negotiations have progressed thanks to cooperation between Sweden and Brazil, Saab’s strategic partner in South America. This partnership has facilitated the financing, a crucial aspect for Colombia, which faces budget constraints. Previously, Colombia had considered purchasing 16 Rafale jets from France’s Dassault Aviation, but financial challenges prevented the deal from materializing, stalling this ambitious project.
In this context, although Colombian President Gustavo Petro has remained discreet since the Dassault negotiations failed, a new procurement approach has been endorsed. Among the options considered, Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Block 70/72 initially appeared to be the preferred choice of Colombian air defense officials. However, Saab’s Gripen E emerged as a viable alternative, ranking second among competitors, including Dassault’s Rafale and the Eurofighter Typhoon, produced by a consortium involving Airbus and BAE Systems.
This acquisition holds strategic importance for Colombia, equipping it with a modern, high-performance fleet better suited to contemporary security and air defense challenges. By replacing its aging Kfir fleet with Gripen E aircraft, the FAC can achieve a more cost-effective and efficient long-term defense solution while enhancing its operational capabilities. This acquisition could also strengthen ties between Colombia, Sweden, and Brazil, consolidating military and economic cooperation among these nations.
In recent years, Saab has significantly expanded its presence in South America, marking notable growth in its sales in the region. Brazil led the way, signing a contract in 2014 to acquire 36 Gripen NG fighters to modernize its air fleet. This partnership included local production agreements, fostering technology transfer and Brazilian industrial development.
Peru has also expressed interest in acquiring Gripen fighters to modernize its air fleet, although negotiations have yet to conclude. This interest underscores the growing appeal of Swedish defense solutions in the region. Moreover, Saab has strengthened its presence in Latin America by participating in defense exhibitions and establishing local partnerships, demonstrating its commitment to extending its influence and meeting the specific needs of South American armed forces.