Colombia and Sweden have signed a letter of intent to purchase Saab Gripen fighter jets

Saab JAS 39 Gripen

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced the signing of a letter of intent between the Republic of Colombia and the Kingdom of Sweden regarding the purchase of Saab Gripen fighter jets. This decision is an important step in the modernization of the Colombian Air Force, which currently uses aging Israeli Kfir fighter jets.

The acquired fleet of aircraft will be brand new and equipped with the latest technologies already used in Brazil. It will be the Saab 39 Gripen brand, known for its high maneuverability, low operating costs and the ability to perform various tasks, including air superiority, strikes against ground targets and reconnaissance.

Colombia considered several options to replace its aging fighter jets, including the Lockheed Martin F-16 and Dassault Rafale, but eventually chose the Saab Gripen. This choice is determined not only by the combat characteristics of the aircraft, but also by the possibility of technological cooperation. The deal includes investments in social projects in Colombia, such as the construction of a solar panel factory and the improvement of medical infrastructure.

Negotiations between Colombia and Saab will continue in the near future, and it is expected that the final agreement will be signed at the international aviation exhibition F-AIR Colombia 2025. This contract will be another proof of the successful penetration of the Swedish company into the South American market.