Sweden’s Gripen offer could bring 10,000 jobs to Canada

SAAB, the Swedish manufacturer behind the Gripen fighter jet, says that as many as 10,000 manufacturing and R&D jobs could be created in Canada if Ottawa decides to add the aircraft to its military fleet.

In an interview with CTV News at the company’s Stockholm headquarters, CEO Micael Johansson confirmed that discussions have taken place regarding producing Gripen jets in Canada. Potential industry partners include Bombardier and CAE in Montreal, as well as IMP Aerospace and Defence in Nova Scotia.

Johansson said SAAB is ready to support Canada in building domestic capabilities:

“If Canada wants the ability to perform upgrades, manufacture components, or complete final assembly and testing, we are prepared to transfer technology and help build that capacity.”

SAAB would consider creating a joint venture with Bombardier or expanding existing partnerships.

The project may involve either new construction or the conversion of an existing facility. If approved, the first Canadian-built Gripen could roll off the assembly line in three to five years.

Johansson also noted that the aircraft would not only serve the Canadian Armed Forces but could be supplied to other nations, including Ukraine, which has expressed interest in acquiring 100 Gripen jets.

“If production needs to scale up for a major order from Ukraine, one or two additional manufacturing hubs would be required. Establishing a large footprint in Canada would make strategic sense for us,” he said.

Sweden’s workforce is limited due to its population of just 10 million, making international partnerships especially valuable—particularly with countries sharing similar Arctic security priorities.

Canada has already agreed to purchase 16 F-35s, with an option to expand the order to 88 aircraft. The F-35 is manufactured by U.S. defence giant Lockheed Martin.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Mark Carney commissioned a review of the procurement plan. A final decision on whether to remain with the F-35 program or move toward a dual-fleet model including the Gripen has not yet been made.

A major Swedish delegation led by King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia is scheduled to visit Canada next week, with stops in Ottawa and Montreal aimed at strengthening defence cooperation. Johansson is part of the delegation and will visit Bombardier during the trip, though there is no indication yet that Canada is close to announcing a final decision.

“It would certainly be positive for Sweden, Canada, and Europe if deeper defence and security cooperation were pursued,” Johansson said. “But ultimately, the decision rests with Canada. We are not lobbying—only answering questions and providing information to support Ottawa’s assessment.”