Brazil and Sweden are reportedly holding advanced discussions over the potential purchase of up to a dozen second-hand Saab Gripen C/D fighters as a temporary measure to cover capability gaps while Brazil completes its long-delayed introduction of the newer Gripen E/F under the F-X2 program. The talks were underscored by a visit to Stockholm by Brazil’s air force commander, who met Swedish officials and signed a broader bilateral defense cooperation declaration in September 2025. That declaration emphasized cooperation including Sweden’s planned acquisition of Embraer KC-390 transports but made only general reference to deeper defense ties; neither Sweden nor Saab has publicly confirmed details of a used fighter sale. Brazil’s interest in the older Gripen variants reflects operational necessity: as legacy Northrop F-5 and AMX fleets near retirement, Brasília needs interim fighters to preserve air defense and training capacity. Historically, Brazil has used second-hand jets — including earlier Mirage purchases — to bridge gaps while awaiting new deliveries; a similar approach would provide an expedient, lower-cost stopgap solution until heavier investment and sustainment for the indigenous Gripen E/F fleet are finalized. Financial pressures and schedule slips affecting the F-X2 program have driven interest in pragmatic, interim buys that can be introduced quickly and with minimal logistics upheaval. If concluded, such a transaction would also deepen Brazilian-Swedish defense ties and could include transition training and technical support to ease integration. For the Brazilian Air Force, acquiring C/D airframes would sustain pilot proficiency, permit continuity of national airspace defense tasks, and provide a fallback force while the newer generation planes are delivered and brought to full operational capability.
