Saab and Embraer announced at the LAAD defence exhibition in Rio de Janeiro on 11 April 2023 that they had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to deepen the collaboration between the two companies in a number of areas, mainly related to business development and engineering opportunities.
Firstly, the companies will collaborate to position Embraer’s C-390 Millennium tanker/transport aircraft as the preferred solution to meet the Swedish Air Force’s tactical air transport requirements. This will include evaluating the integration of Saab equipment and systems into the C-390.
Additionally, the companies will jointly pursue new business opportunities, in particular potential future Latin American customers for the Saab Gripen E/F multi-role fighter, which is currently being licence-produced by Embraer for the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) under a contract signed in 2014. Succeeding with this would have the effect of increasing Embraer’s participation in future Gripen contracts.
Finally, the companies will collaborate on engineering and technical future fighter studies, thus consolidating the transfer of technology from Saab to the Brazilian defence industry within the current FAB Gripen programme. This work could support the future growth of the Gripen E out to 2060 along with other future fighter needs as they arise, according to a Saab press release.
“Our two companies have worked together to deliver an outstanding capability for Brazil that will last for decades,” Saab President and CEO Micael Johansson was quoted as saying in the press release. “This MoU is an important and gratifying step toward growing that co-operation into new areas between Saab and Embraer that goes beyond Brazil, while maximising our existing achievements.”
“Saab and Embraer are two world leaders in the aerospace segment, recognised for the excellence of their engineering and products,” added Bosco da Costa Junior, Embraer Defense and Security President & CEO. “I view this MoU with extreme optimism, as I am sure that the two companies together can further grow their business in various markets around the world.”
Peter Felstead
