Peru announces purchase of 24 SAAB Gripen and/F Fighters

Peru’s president, Dina Boluarte, announced yesterday (2), the approval of the acquisition of 24 Gripen fighters and, as part of the Peruvian Air Force Modernization Program (FAP). The contract is estimated at approximately $ 3.5 billion and is awaiting the signing of a presidential decree for release of appeals.

Made by Swedish Saab, Gripen will be responsible for replacing the current Mirage 2000p/DP and MIG-29 in operation since the 1980s. The project foresees that the new fighter is the country’s main air defense vector.

With the acquisition, Peru will become the fifth global client of Gripen and/F, alongside Sweden, Brazil, Thailand and Colombia. Confirmation also represents Saab’s victory over rivals offered to the country, such as Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70, Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale and KF-21 Boramae.

According to Peruvian press, Saab CEO Micael Johansson is expected in the coming days in Lima to advance the negotiations and define operational details with authorities. Sweden Defense Minister Pål Jonson, who participates in the F-Air Colombia 2025, should also meet with Peru and Colombia’s defense representatives, Gripen’s newest customers.

However, no delivery schedule was detailed or the eventual participation of Brazilian suppliers in the contract with Peru. Gripen fighters in South America has components provided by companies based in Brazil, including components of Saab Brasil itself.

In addition to Peru, Colombia also negotiates the acquisition of sixteen Gripen e/F units, with a contract scheduled to be signed in mid -2025. With the confirmation of the two new agreements, three South American countries will be Gripen operators, expanding the strategic presence of Saab in the region.