A Portuguese supplier is set to take on a defined manufacturing role in Saab’s Gripen E/F program, even as Portugal’s process to replace its F-16s had not begun as of Nov. 5.
Saab, the Swedish defense company, said industrial group Vangest will initially industrialize eight complex components for Gripen E/F fighters at its facilities in Marinha Grande. The announcement did not identify the components or state when production would begin, how much would be made or the agreement’s value.
Saab said the arrangement is intended to broaden its international manufacturing network and strengthen Gripen production capacity. It expects the work to create skilled jobs in Marinha Grande and the surrounding area, but gave no estimate for the number of positions. The company cited Vangest’s manufacturing capabilities and experience as reasons for the cooperation.
Johan Segertoft, head of Saab’s Gripen business unit, said the arrangement gives Portuguese industry “a concrete role in the Gripen programme.”
The announcement clarifies the scope of an existing relationship. ECO reported in July that Vangest was already working with Saab on the fighter. The latest statement describes the initial industrialization work but does not identify the components.
Saab said a future Portuguese selection of the Gripen E/F could create additional opportunities to cooperate with local industry. That prospect is conditional: Portugal had not selected a successor to the F-16 as of Nov. 5, ECO reported. The announced manufacturing work is separate from a procurement decision; Saab tied further cooperation to a future choice of aircraft.
On Sept. 19, the chief of Portugal’s Armed Forces told Lusa the replacement program was expected to be included in a proposed Military Programming Law. Lusa separately reported that the proposal was expected later in 2026. The law proposal would be a step in the replacement program, while Portugal’s choice of aircraft remains outstanding.
