The South American nation will replace its aging Israeli-made Kfir fighters with the modern Swedish aircraft, marking a significant upgrade for its air defense capabilities.
Colombia has officially selected the Saab Gripen E/F fighter as its next combat aircraft, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced on social media, ending speculation about the country’s choice for modernizing its air force.
“Following the letter of intent signed by the government of the Kingdom of Sweden and the approval of the countryโs strategic air defence as a priority project, I report: The fleet of aircraft to be acquired is completely new, with the latest technology, already deployed in Brazil, and are Saab 39 Gripen” Petro stated.
While the exact number of aircraft was not specified in the president’s announcement, media reports suggest Colombia plans to acquire between 16 and 24 Gripen fighters, though final acquisition numbers will be determined during upcoming contract negotiations.
The procurement represents a significant modernization for the Colombian Air Force, which currently operates a fleet of Israel Aerospace Industries Kfir fighters. According to data analytics firm Cirium, Colombia maintains 22 Kfir jets with an average age of 43.1 years, making them among the oldest operational fighter aircraft in the region. Colombia is the last nation to operate the Kfir type in front-line service.
Saab president Micael Johansson expressed enthusiasm about the selection, saying the company is “extremely pleased and happy” with Bogota’s decision.
“We have the intention to work closely with the air force and government to finalise this contract within the months to come,” Johansson said. “I am positive that we absolutely have the best offer for Colombia when it comes to the Gripen E/F version.”
The Swedish aerospace manufacturer emphasized that there is “no veto” from the United States preventing the sale, despite the aircraft containing American-made components including its GE Aerospace F414 engine and other systems.
Colombia had also evaluated the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70/72 as part of its fighter replacement competition before ultimately selecting the Swedish option.
The agreement includes more than just aircraft. Saab has proposed a comprehensive offset package to support Colombia’s domestic aerospace industry. Additionally, the company has offered indirect offsets in various sectors including energy, healthcare, and innovation, potentially creating broader economic benefits beyond the military procurement.
The Gripen E/F represents the latest generation of the Swedish fighter design, featuring advanced avionics, extended range, and enhanced weapons capability compared to earlier versions. Neighboring Brazil has already begun receiving its Gripen fighters as part of a separate procurement program, providing regional commonality that could offer logistical and training advantages for Colombia.
Delivery timelines for the Colombian Gripens have not yet been disclosed, as these details will likely be finalized in the upcoming contract negotiations.
Key Takeaways
- Colombia has selected the Saab Gripen E/F as its next fighter aircraft, replacing its aging fleet of IAI Kfir jets.
- While President Petro didn’t specify numbers, reports suggest 16-24 aircraft will be acquired pending final negotiations.
- Colombia currently operates 22 Kfir fighters averaging 43.1 years old and is the last nation to use this Israeli-designed aircraft operationally.
- Saab has offered both direct aerospace sector offsets and indirect benefits in energy, healthcare, and innovation sectors.
- The Gripen E/F is already operated by neighboring Brazil, potentially offering regional maintenance and training synergies.
