GKN Aerospace to Take Greater Role in Sweden’s Gripen E/F Engine Program — Saab has expanded its partnership with GKN Aerospace through a new agreement aimed at strengthening Sweden’s domestic expertise in the engine powering its Gripen E/F fighter aircraft. The arrangement establishes GKN as Saab’s partner for engine-related work on the newer variants, with the company expected to increase its involvement gradually through engineering capacity, technical knowledge, and program support. The Swedish government has directed the two companies to develop national capabilities in this area, although the financial details and implementation schedule remain undisclosed. Saab and GKN already work together on the engine used by the Gripen C/D, and the expanded cooperation extends their relationship to the E/F models being introduced to modernize Sweden’s fighter fleet. The initiative forms part of wider investment in the Gripen program. In December 2025, Saab received a contract to support continued fighter development through 2028, covering test aircraft, testing equipment, and simulators used to verify current systems and develop additional capabilities. The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration also ordered more equipment for Gripen E production in June 2025. Sweden is simultaneously pursuing export opportunities. Ukraine announced plans in May to acquire 20 Gripen E/F aircraft, while Sweden intends to donate up to 16 Gripen C/D fighters from its existing inventory. Thailand separately ordered four Gripen E/F aircraft in August 2025 under a 5.3-billion-krona agreement worth around $529 million, including three single-seat Gripen E aircraft and one two-seat Gripen F. Deliveries are expected to continue until 2030.
