“Brazil Welcomes the Gripen: A New Era in Aviation Unveiled”

Today, on October 23rd, the Gripen E, designated as F-39E Gripen by the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), was officially unveiled at the Aviators’ Day and Brazilian Air Force Day celebrations at Wing 1 in Brasília. Spectators witnessed an exhilarating air display by the Brazilian Smoke Squadron as the aircraft soared over the air base.

The prestigious event was graced by notable figures including Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Defence Minister Fernando Azevedo e Silva, Swedish Ambassador to Brazil Johanna Brosmar-Skoogh, Brazilian Air Force Commander Air Lieutenant Brigadier Antonio Carlos Moretti Bermudez, Swedish Air Force Commander Major General Carl-Johan Edström, Saab Chairman Marcus Wallenberg, and Saab President and CEO Micael Johansson.

“Witnessing the Gripen E at this significant celebration is a tremendous honor. The occasion is particularly meaningful for Brazilian aviators as we see the aircraft gracing Brazilian skies,” stated Micael Johansson, CEO of Saab. “This achievement is a testament to the successful collaboration between Brazil and Sweden, marking a pivotal step in strengthening our bilateral ties.”

Lieutenant Brigadier Bermudez emphasized the readiness of this advanced fighter to commence operations with the FAB.

“The development and manufacturing process of the Gripen E has been closely supervised by the Brazilian Air Force and involves collaboration among various national companies. Therefore, October 23rd holds added significance as we officially present the first F-39 Gripen that has arrived in Brazil,” he noted.

The aircraft made its debut in Brazil on September 20, shortly followed by its inaugural flight within the country from Navegantes (Santa Catarina) to Gavião Peixoto (São Paulo) for continued flight testing.

The Brazilian flight testing activities encompass evaluations of flight control and climate control systems under tropical conditions. Additionally, the aircraft will undergo tests specific to its Brazilian version, such as armaments integration and the Link BR2 communication system, which enables encrypted data and voice communications.

The initial batch of fighters is slated for delivery to the Brazilian Air Force at Wing 2 in Anápolis (Goiás state) by the end of 2021.

The Brazilian Gripen Programme

The partnership with Brazil commenced in 2014, following the signing of a contract for the design and production of 36 Gripen E/F aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force, which includes advanced systems, support, and equipment. An extensive technology transfer initiative, spanning a decade, is currently fostering the growth of the local aviation sector through collaboration with partner companies within the Brazilian Gripen Programme.

Throughout this period, over 350 Brazilian technicians and engineers will receive theoretical and hands-on training in Sweden, enabling them to acquire essential skills for local operations in Brazil. To date, more than 230 professionals have completed their training, with many back in Brazil, contributing to the Gripen Design and Development Center (GDDN).

The Gripen E/F fighters being delivered to the Brazilian Air Force will be developed and manufactured in close collaboration with Brazilian engineers and technicians. From 2021 onwards, the local assembly of 15 aircraft will commence. Progress continues on the two-seat Gripen F, with extensive activities ongoing at the GDDN.