Saab has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Embraer to collaborate for the Brazilian Air Force’s (FAB) F-X2 fighter aircraft project.
Under the agreement, Embraer will be responsible for the programme performance on behalf of Saab in Brazil.
The company will also take part in production activities such as systems development, integration, flight tests and final assembly, and delivery of both the single and two-seat versions of Saab’s Gripen next-generation (NG) aircraft to FAB.
Brazilian Air Force commander lieutenant brigadier Juniti-Saito said the F-X2 project is meant to stimulate Brazil´s defence industrial base, in addition to re-equipping the FAB.
"This partnership between Embraer and Saab will be of great importance to Brazil, because, besides participating in the development, we will be able to autonomously maintain our fleet," Saito said.
The agreement makes the two companies jointly responsible for the complete development of the two-seat version of the Gripen NG aircraft.
The companies are discussing a strategic partnership for future global promotion and marketing of the two versions.
Saab is in negotiations with Brazil to finalise the F-X2 contract, which is expected to be closed by this year.
The Brazilian Government selected Saab’s Gripen aircraft in December 2013 for the multi-billion dollar F-X2 project.
Saab is offering 36 Gripen, its sub-systems, technology transfer and financing packages and a long-term bi-lateral collaboration between the Brazilian and Swedish governments.
The company competed with Boeing F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet and Dassault Aviation’s Rafale for the contract, which has been repeatedly delayed due to budgetary constraints.
