On March 2, Saab presented its bid to Canada which seeks to modernize its combat fleet. Indeed, the country issued on July 23, 2019, a request for proposals for its Future Fighter Capability Project (FFCP) which aims to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CF-18 Hornet fighter fleet with 88 new aircraft. Saab’s Gripen E is the only European aircraft to be offered to Canada, following the withdrawal of Dassault Aviation and Airbus.
 

The "Gripen for Canada Team".

The Swedish company’s bid to the Government of Canada entails an economic parameter interesting for the Canadian industry: the Gripen for Canada Team. “We have assembled a dynamic roster of innovative leaders within Canada’s aerospace industry, across multiple regions to offer the best solution for Canada’s future fighter,” said Jonas Hjelm, Senior Vice President and head of Business Area Aeronautics. He further stated that, “Saab is committed to securing long-term relationships in Canada that will create a significant number of highly-skilled, sustainable jobs for Canadians within domestic and international supply chains.”

Together with Saab, IMP Aerospace & Defence, CAE, Peraton Canada and GE Aviation will incorporate the Gripen for Canada Team. IMP Aerospace & Defence will contribute with in-country production and in-service support for the life of the Canadian Gripen fleet. CAE will provide training and mission systems solutions, while Peraton Canada will provide avionic and test equipment component maintenance, repair and overhaul, and material management. GE Aviation will provide and sustain the fighter’s engines in Canada.

Canada will now have one year to evaluate the Swedish company’s bid as well as these of the two U.S. companies Boeing and Lockheed Martin. Contract award will be released in 2022.