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Colombia Finalizes €3.1 Billion Deal for 17 Saab Gripen Fighters

Lower upkeep, robust offsets and technology transfer drove the choice, with deliveries beginning in 2026.

Overview

  • Deliveries run from 2026 to 2032, comprising 15 single-seat Gripen E and two dual-seat Gripen F aircraft.
  • The package includes weapons, associated equipment, training programs and long-term support services.
  • Two offset agreements launch industrial and social initiatives across aeronautics, cybersecurity, public health, sustainable energy and water purification.
  • Officials cited lower maintenance needs, high sortie-generation rates and dispersed-operations suitability as Kfir sustainment grew costly after Colombia’s break with Israel.
  • The decision rejects U.S. F-16 proposals, makes Colombia the second Gripen operator in South America after Brazil and moves next to base upgrades and pilot training.