Swedish defence firm Saab has indicated that Canada could become a production and export hub for Gripen fighter jets, potentially supplying aircraft to Ukraine, should the Canadian government decide to invest in the Gripen E. According to Saab's deputy CEO Andres Carp, if Ottawa chooses to procure the Gripen E fighter jets, Canada could manufacture some of those earmarked for the Ukrainian Air Force.
Saab has committed to building, maintaining, and upgrading the Gripen in Canada, with a Montreal-based Gripen Centre to manage and maintain the fleet, which would create 6,000 jobs across Canada. A $400 million Gripen fighter jet factory is already under construction in Montreal, with the first aircraft expected to roll off the line in 2028. Carp noted that up to 20 Gripen jets will be built for Ukraine under a European Union support loan agreement, while Sweden will donate 16 older-model Gripens to the war-torn country.
Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal government has been reviewing whether to proceed with a full order of 88 F-35 fighter jets for over a year. Canada has been a consistent supporter of Ukraine, with over $25.5 billion in overall aid committed since February 2022, including $8.5 billion in military assistance. In August 2025, Carney pledged a $2 billion package of military support during a visit to Kyiv.
The potential for Canadian-built Gripens to support Ukraine comes as Canada participates in the Air Force Capability Coalition (AFCC) under the Ukraine Defence Contact Group. Recent reports also indicate Canada named Saab GlobalEye preferred airborne early warning aircraft. Canada continues to explore options for joint manufacturing of military equipment with Ukraine, including drones, further solidifying its commitment to supporting Ukraine's defence capabilities.
