Gripen sought by Portugal to replace F-16

Admin

April 24, 2025
3 min read

Gripen sought by Portugal to replace F-16

Earlier this month, Saab CEO Michael Johansson confirmed in an interview that the firm is in talks with both Portugal and Canada to sell them the JAS 39 Gripen fighter plane. This confirmation comes after Portugal announced its cancellation of the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II.

Lisbon’s interest in the Swedish plane dates back to 2013 when Saab saw Portugal as one of the potential countries that could be interested in the Gripen. Portugal’s reassessment of its fleet came in March 2025 after Defence Minister Nuno Melo revealed that the country had cancelled its purchase of 27 to 28 F-35A planes.

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The decision to cancel came follow concerns over the US’ role within NATO under the administration of Donald Trump. Melo cited possible restrictions on the use, maintenance, supply of American components as being a risk to the nation’s operational autonomy. These are part of wider concerns over European dependency on the US.

In 2013, Saab identified Portugal as one of multiple countries with a potential interest in the Gripen variants. It already sees service with multiple countries including Hungary, the Czech Republic, South Africa, and Thailand, as well as Sweden’s own air force.

Portugal has yet to reach a final decision over the future of its fighter fleet. It is currently evaluating operational and strategic considerations but political developments will also play a part in its final decision.

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