Colombia has decided to purchase 17 fighter aircraft of the Jas Gripen model from Saab. The company confirms this in a press release. The order includes 15 Gripen E and two two-seater Gripen F, along with equipment, weapon systems, training, and technical support.

The deal is valued at around 3.1 billion euros, equivalent to approximately 34 billion Swedish kronor. Deliveries are scheduled to take place gradually between 2026 and 2032.

– This is the beginning of a strong and long-term partnership, says Saab’s CEO Micael Johansson, emphasizing that the agreement will strengthen Colombia’s military capabilities and contribute to the country’s technological development.

One of Sweden’s largest export deals

Minister for International Development and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa (M) participated in the signing in the city of Cali in western Colombia. He describes the agreement as a historic step for Swedish high-tech exports.

– Sweden is a small country, but when it comes to advanced technology, we punch far above our weight, says Dousa.

The Swedish minister also emphasizes the significance of the deal in a broader perspective.

– It is a deal that strengthens both Swedish security and economy.

Deepened ties between the countries

Sweden and Colombia celebrated 150 years of diplomatic relations in 2024. Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard (M) highlights that the bond between the countries is now further deepened.

– Sweden and Colombia have very good relations that go way back. I look forward to continuing to strengthen and broaden the cooperation between our countries, she says.

Minister of Defense Pål Jonson (M) also expresses a positive view on continued expanded defense policy cooperation.

– It is a clear testament to the competitiveness of the Swedish defense industry and high technological capabilities. With Gripen, Colombia will have one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets. I look forward to deepening the defense policy cooperation, says Minister of Defense Pål Jonson.

“Welcoming Colombia to the Gripen family”

Saab’s CEO Micael Johansson emphasizes that the purchase entails more than the delivery of aircraft and equipment – it also involves long-term cooperation in innovation, technology transfer, and joint development.

– I am pleased to welcome Colombia to the Gripen family, he says.

Countries already flying Gripen

Gripen is currently used by several countries around the world. Sweden operates both older and newer versions of the aircraft. Czech Republic, Hungary, and Thailand use Gripen C/D, as does South Africa. Brazil has introduced Gripen E into operational service and continues to build up its fleet. Together, these countries constitute today’s international Gripen users.

Ukraine has also expressed interest in purchasing Gripen, but it is still unclear how such a deal could be financed.

– We hope to acquire at least 100 of these aircraft. And we understand that this is a long process. It is also a long process economically, said Zelenskyj in October.

READ MORE: Zelenskyj in Sweden: ‘Hopes to acquire at least 100 Gripen aircraft’