Brazil announces plan for up to 20 more Gripen fighter jets despite defense budget cuts

Brazil has announced its intention to acquire up to 20 additional Saab Gripen E fighter jets, a single-seat model manufactured in both Sweden and Brazil. If fully realized, this purchase would expand the fleet ordered in 2014 to a total of 56 aircraft. The revelation surprised those involved in the program, particularly given the current austere budget for the Defense Ministry, which faced a significant R$ 4.36 billion cut in spending this year.

Defense Minister José Mucio Monteiro acknowledged the lengthy nature of defense procurements, stating, "In Defense, everything takes time." He spoke alongside his Swedish counterpart, Pal Jonson. Brazil's Air Force (FAB) initially aimed to acquire 120 advanced fighter jets in the late 1990s. By 2013, it selected the Gripen, signing the contract the following year for 36 aircraft. In 2022, the then-commander expressed a desire for at least 30 more planes.

Previously, a deal was negotiated where Brazil would receive 14 additional Gripens while Sweden would purchase 14 Embraer C-390 transport aircraft. Sweden has proceeded with its acquisition, but Brazil has yet to finalize the purchase of the new single-pilot Gripen E jets. The plan was to amend the original 2014 contract, valued at R$ 29.5 billion. Brazilian law allows for a maximum increase of 25%, or R$ 7.3 billion, to be financed over several years, but it remains uncertain if this model will be used.

The Ministry of Defense has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the acquisition. This decision is politically sensitive, especially in a presidential election year, and past difficulties in justifying such spending have led to delays. Although the original program budget has seen 57% of its funds spent by March, only 11 of the 36 ordered aircraft have been delivered for operation. Contract addendums by 2025 increased the spending equivalent to six additional aircraft, attributed to budgetary challenges, though the Gripen program generally shows strong execution of planned funding.

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In Defense, everything takes time.