Saab and GKN Aerospace have signed an agreement to strengthen their cooperation on the engine for Sweden’s Gripen E/F fighter aircraft, supporting the country’s efforts to expand its domestic aerospace capabilities. Under the agreement, GKN Aerospace will become Saab’s partner for engine-related activities associated with the newer Gripen variants.
GKN Aerospace will gradually assume a greater role in the program, contributing technical expertise, engineering resources, and development support. The Swedish government has tasked both companies with building national expertise in the engine. However, the companies have not disclosed the financial details or timeline for the expanded partnership.
Saab and GKN Aerospace already collaborate on the engine used in the older Gripen C/D fighter aircraft. The latest agreement extends their existing relationship to the Gripen E/F, which Sweden is introducing to replace its aging fighter fleet and strengthen its combat aviation capabilities.
Sweden Accelerates Gripen Production and Development
The expanded engine partnership comes as Sweden continues investing in Gripen production infrastructure, testing capabilities, and long-term aircraft development. In December 2025, Saab received an order to support the fighter program’s future development through 2028. The contract covers assistance for test aircraft, testing equipment, and simulators used to validate existing systems and develop new operational capabilities.
Earlier, in June 2025, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration ordered additional equipment to support Gripen E production, reinforcing efforts to expand manufacturing capacity and advance the next-generation fighter program.
International Orders and Export Prospects
Sweden is also pursuing international opportunities for the Gripen E/F. In May 2025, Ukraine announced its intention to purchase 20 Gripen E/F aircraft. Sweden has also indicated plans to donate up to 16 Gripen C/D fighters from its existing fleet.
Thailand strengthened its Gripen procurement plans in August 2025 by ordering four aircraft under a contract valued at 5.3 billion Swedish krona (approximately $529 million). The package includes three single-seat Gripen E fighters and one two-seat Gripen F, with deliveries scheduled to continue through 2030.
The expanded cooperation between Saab and GKN Aerospace highlights Sweden’s commitment to strengthening domestic engine expertise, supporting long-term Gripen development, and maintaining greater control over critical aerospace technologies. Combined with ongoing production investments and international demand, the partnership could contribute to the fighter program’s long-term sustainability and export competitiveness.
