Saab promotes Gripen for Portugal fighter jet contract

Swedish defense firm Saab is competing for a new fighter‑jet contract with the Portuguese Air Force, offering its JAS 39 Gripen as an alternative to the U.S. F‑35. The company argues the Gripen is better suited to high‑intensity conflict scenarios, such as a potential clash with Russia, and highlights its rapid turnaround capability – the aircraft can be ready for a new mission within about ten minutes of landing.

Former Swedish Air Force pilot and Saab adviser Jussi Halmetoja told CNN Portugal that the Gripen was designed from the outset for such high‑tempo operations, giving it operational advantages over the F‑35, which was not built for that speed of combat. Saab also stresses the possibility of extensive cooperation with Portugal’s local industry, aiming to boost the national economy and reduce reliance on American equipment, a concern that has grown amid shifting U.S. policy.

Ukrainian military analysts have praised the Gripen’s performance against Russian air forces, adding further credibility to Saab’s bid. The contract, once awarded, would replace Portugal’s aging F‑16 fleet and shape the country’s future air‑defence posture.