Swedish defense company Saab has announced the team of companies it would be working with as part of Canada’s Future Fighter Capability Project (FFCP).
Saab said it would join forces with IMP Aerospace & Defence, CAE, Peraton Canada and GE Aviation to offer its Gripen E fighter.
IMP Aerospace & Defence will contribute with in-country production and in-service support for the life of the Canadian Gripen fleet. CAE will provide training and mission systems solutions, while Peraton Canada will provide avionic and test equipment component maintenance, repair and overhaul, and material management. GE Aviation will provide and sustain the fighter’s engines in Canada.
Canada intends to acquire 88 new aircraft to replace its air force’s existing CF-18 Hornet fighter fleet.
The Gripen E/F is part of the Gripen E-series and a new fighter aircraft system. The E-series has a new and more powerful engine, improved range performance and the ability to carry greater payloads. It also has a new AESA-radar, infrared search and track system, electronic warfare and communication systems together with an upgraded situational awareness.
“Over the past two years, Saab and the Swedish government have been encouraged by Canada’s open and transparent competition to replace its fighter fleet. Today, we are delighted to announce the ‘Gripen for Canada Team’. We have assembled a dynamic roster of innovative leaders within Canada’s aerospace industry, across multiple regions to offer the best solution for Canada’s future fighter,” said Jonas Hjelm, senior vice president and head of business area aeronautics.
Saab is one of three bidders remaining in the project, together with Boeing and its Super Hornet, and Lockheed Martin with the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. France’s Dassault Aviation and a team made up of Airbus and the UK defense ministry announced their decisions to withdraw from the competition arguing that the RFP appeared to benefit the F-35 offer.
The deadline for bidders to submit their responses to the RFP is spring 2020.
