Canada and Sweden are exploring the potential for a significant military partnership focused on defense and space collaboration. This initiative follows discussions regarding the procurement of Gripen E fighter jets and GlobalEye surveillance aircraft, which Saab plans to manufacture entirely in Canada.
Strengthening the Canada-Sweden Military Partnership
Marcus Wandt, director of Strategy and Technology at Saab, emphasized the shared values and goals of both countries. During an interview in Ottawa, he stated, “The ambitions of Saab in Canada are essentially to find a strong partner.” He highlighted the capabilities of the Gripen and GlobalEye, noting their potential interest for Canada.
Both nations have a commitment to defending their sovereignty and are NATO members. This partnership could play a crucial role in rebuilding Canada’s defense industry, drawing on Sweden’s extensive military experience since World War II.
Space Collaboration Potential
Wandt also indicated that both nations possess significant capabilities in the space sector. “We have great ambitions for space,” he noted, pointing out that collaboration in this area could be highly beneficial. This joint effort could leverage Canada’s strengths in space technology.
Investment in Military Spending
- The Canadian government plans to allocate approximately $82 billion for military spending over the next five years.
- Saab is keen to participate in this initiative, aiming to promote the Gripen and GlobalEye to Canadian authorities.
- A partnership would not only focus on procurement but also on job creation in Canada.
The Swedish delegation, including government ministers and business leaders, is actively engaging with officials in Ottawa and Montreal to discuss these proposals. In 2023, Saab was a contender for a $19 billion contract to supply fighter jets, coming in second to Lockheed Martin.
Current Status of F-35 Acquisition
Prime Minister Mark Carney has called for a review of the F-35 contract, questioning its viability as an investment. Canada is legally bound to take possession of 16 F-35s next year, but no contracts are finalized for the remaining 72 aircraft.
Employment Opportunities in Canada
In its proposal, Saab pledged to establish assembly and maintenance operations in Canada and transfer intellectual property to the Canadian government. Moreover, they plan to develop a research and excellence center in Montreal. Saab has recently enhanced its offer, proposing to build 100 to 150 Gripen jets for Ukraine, which could generate 10,000 jobs in Canada. Additionally, around 3,000 jobs could arise from the GlobalEye program, in partnership with Bombardier.
Operational Compatibility
Wandt dismissed concerns regarding Canada having two fleets of fighter jets, affirming that the Gripen is fully interoperable with NATO systems. He shared his experience piloting the Gripen in the 2011 NATO mission in Libya, assuring that it is compatible with the F-35.
Countries like Poland and Germany operate two fleets successfully, and Nordic nations are currently training with both Gripen and F-35 jets together.
Overall, the evolving military partnership between Canada and Sweden holds promise in enhancing their defense strategies and advancements in space technology.
