Saab and GKN Aerospace signed a long-term collaboration agreement on 8 October 2026 covering the Gripen E/F propulsion system. Under the agreement, GKN Aerospace becomes Saab's preferred provider of engine services for the fighter.
— This agreement strengthens our collaboration with Saab and expands GKN Aerospace's role in supporting the long-term development of the Gripen E/F propulsion system, says Sara Eklöf, SVP Governmental Solutions, Defence and Space at GKN Aerospace.
According to GKN Aerospace, the agreement covers propulsion support and capability development. It also includes contributions to Saab's international Gripen campaigns. Neither company disclosed a contract value.
Saab says the Swedish Government recently decided to strengthen national capability and expertise related to the Gripen E/F engine. The government tasked the two companies with jointly creating the conditions for this. Saab says GKN Aerospace is expected to take on a gradually larger engine role in the programme. The companies will keep discussing how to strengthen long-term Swedish capability.
— The cooperation agreement we have now signed lays the foundation for establishing GKN Aerospace as Saab's partner in engine-related matters for Gripen E/F, says Johan Segertoft, head of Saab's Gripen business unit.
GKN Aerospace already holds the type certificate for the RM12 engine, which powers the Gripen C/D fleet. The company provides maintenance and technical support for Gripen engines in Sweden. In March, it delivered the first upgraded RM12 to the Swedish Armed Forces.