Swedish defense company Saab has officially rolled out the first Gripen F two-seat fighter aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force during a ceremony held at its facility in Linköping on June 2, 2026. The aircraft marks a significant milestone in the Gripen program, with Brazil serving as both the launch customer and a key development partner for the variant.
The Gripen F is the dual-seat version of the Gripen E and was developed to combine advanced pilot training with full combat capability. According to Saab, the aircraft retains the same sensors, avionics architecture, and operational performance as the single-seat model while incorporating a second cockpit for instruction and mission support.
One of the aircraft’s distinguishing features is its fully independent rear cockpit, allowing instructors to oversee training missions aboard a combat-ready fighter. This arrangement enables trainee pilots to experience realistic operational conditions while accelerating conversion and mission-preparation training. Saab also notes that the second crew member can assist with sensor management, electronic warfare, and mission coordination during complex combat operations.
Brazil played a central role in the development of the Gripen F through an extensive industrial cooperation and technology-transfer program. Saab stated that hundreds of Brazilian engineers and technicians have received specialized training, helping strengthen the country’s aerospace design and development capabilities while deepening long-term collaboration between Swedish and Brazilian industries.
“The rollout of Gripen F represents a shared achievement between Saab, Brazilian industry and the Brazilian Air Force,” said Lars Tossman, who highlighted the aircraft as evidence of the maturity and success of the partnership. Before entering operational service, the first Gripen F will undergo an extensive flight-test campaign at Saab’s Flight Test Centre in Sweden.
Brazil’s Gripen acquisition program, signed in 2014, includes 36 aircraft, comprising 28 Gripen E fighters and eight Gripen F variants. Deliveries began in 2020, and 11 aircraft have already been handed over to the Brazilian Air Force.
The Gripen F has also attracted international interest. In 2025, Thailand ordered four Gripen E/F fighters, including one two-seat variant, while Colombia signed for 17 Gripen E/F aircraft, including two Gripen F models.
