Colombia Announces Saab Gripen Selection; Deal Expected at F-AIR 2025
F-AIR Colombia 2025 could seal historic Gripen jet purchase.
Colombia's President, Gustavo Petro, confirmed his government's intention to acquire a fleet of advanced Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets from Sweden, a decision poised to modernize the country's air defense capabilities. The announcement, made via the president's official X account, details not only the aircraft purchase but also an ambitious social and industrial investment package. The agreement is expected to be formalized during the F-AIR Colombia 2025 international airshow in Rionegro - Antioquia, where Sweden will participate as the guest country of honor.
Following the signing of a letter of intent with the Swedish government and the designation of strategic air defense as a priority project, President Petro reported that Colombia will acquire a "completely new, latest technology" aircraft fleet. He specified the model as the Saab 39 Gripen, already implemented in countries like Brazil (which operates the latest Gripen E/F version).
This move would replace the Colombian Air Force's (FAC) aging fleet of Israeli-origin Kfir fighters, marking a generational leap in its capabilities.
Social and Technological Offset
A standout aspect of the announcement is the compensation ("offset") package linked to the military purchase. This social investment component includes:
- Renewable Energy: The establishment of a factory for cutting-edge flexible solar panels in the department of Córdoba.
- Water Infrastructure: Projects for installing potable water systems in various locations within the department of La Guajira.
- Healthcare: The restoration and installation of advanced medical technology equipment in the central tower of the San Juan de Dios Hospital in Bogotá.
This strategy directly links defense investment with technological, industrial, and social development in key regions of the country.
F-AIR Colombia 2025: The Expected Stage
The timing of the announcement is significant. Sweden is the guest of honor at F-AIR Colombia 2025, the country's most important aerospace and defense exhibition, currently to be held from July 09-13 in Rionegro - Antioquia. Industry sources and analysts expect the official contract signing between Colombia and Saab to take place during this event, capitalizing on the presence of high-level delegations from both nations.
It is important to note that, as of this publication date (April 2, 2025), Saab AB, the Swedish manufacturer, has not yet issued an official confirmation regarding the deal, although President Petro's statements indicate an advanced governmental decision.
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen: Cutting-Edge Swedish Technology
The JAS 39 Gripen is a light, single-engine, multirole fighter aircraft renowned for its agility, advanced avionics, and operational efficiency. Designed by Saab, its key features include:
- Multirole: Capable of performing air superiority (Jakt), ground attack (Attack), and reconnaissance (Spaning) missions.
- Technology: Features a delta-wing and canard aerodynamic design, fly-by-wire controls, an advanced glass cockpit with multi-function displays (MFDs), and HOTAS (Hands-On-Throttle-And-Stick) controls. The latest versions (E/F), likely the model for Colombia, incorporate AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, an IRST (InfraRed Search and Track) sensor, state-of-the-art electronic warfare suites, and a more powerful engine (GE F414G).
- Efficiency: Known for its relatively low operating costs and ease of maintenance, with the ability to operate from austere bases and roadways – a valuable feature for dispersed operations doctrine.
- Global Operators: Besides Sweden and Brazil, the Gripen serves in the air forces of the Czech Republic, Hungary, South Africa, and Thailand. It is also used by the United Kingdom's Empire Test Pilots' School (ETPS).
A Strategic Step for Colombia
The potential acquisition of the Gripen represents one of the most significant military modernization programs for Colombia in decades. It would not only bolster the deterrent and operational capability of the Colombian Air Force but also strengthen strategic and technological ties with Sweden, while simultaneously driving key national development projects through the offset agreement. Official confirmation from Saab and the contract signing at F-AIR Colombia are now the most anticipated steps by the regional aerospace and defense community.
Desde 2017, haciendo periodismo aeronáutico. Award-Winning Journalist: Ganador de la edición 2023 de "Periodismo de Altura", otorgado por ALTA. Facts don't care about your feelings.
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