Saab Says Gripen, GlobalEye Production in Canada Could Support Over 12,000 Jobs

December 18, 2025 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2025-1766059448252-1496

Canada's Aerospace Industry Sees Boost from Saab Proposal Amid F-35 Review

Saab has presented an industrial proposal to support up to 12,600 jobs in Canada by localizing production of its Gripen fighter jet and GlobalEye airborne surveillance aircraft. According to AeroTime, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly confirmed that Ottawa is examining the proposal as part of its broader Canada-Sweden aerospace and defense partnership. The plan involves partnering with Bombardier on the GlobalEye program, which could expand domestic production capacity. However, Saab’s continued promotion of the Gripen E as a candidate for Canada’s future fighter fleet may indicate a desire to balance job creation with capability considerations.

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Key Takeaways

Saab says it could support up to 12,600 jobs in Canada.
Proposal involves localizing production of Gripen fighter jet and GlobalEye airborne surveillance aircraft.
Canadian government reviewing its planned purchase of 88 F-35A Lightning II fighters.
Saab argues the plan would strengthen domestic production capacity.

Saab Bombardier

Strategic Implications

The proposal may suggest Saab is prioritizing job creation and industrial sovereignty in its sales strategy. However, it could also indicate a shift towards more localized production to meet Ottawa’s concerns about supply-chain resilience. The Canadian government’s review of its F-35 plans may ultimately determine the fate of this proposal.