As part of its strategy to consolidate the Full Operational Capability (FOC) of the F-39 Gripen E weapon system achieved in late 2025, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) signed a new technical agreement with GE Aerospace for comprehensive support of the F414-GE-39E engines that power Saab’s Swedish-built fighters. The agreement, signed on January 26, 2026, in São Paulo, strengthens cooperation between both institutions and ensures access to advanced technical support, specialized training, and defense services aimed at sustaining fleet readiness.
This agreement will allow the FAB to access technical data and essential services for the integration, operation, testing, and maintenance of the F414-GE-39E engines. Under the terms of the deal, GE Aerospace will provide specific training programs, technical manuals, and local representation in Brazil, strengthening national personnel’s maintenance and readiness capabilities. At the same time, MDS Aero Support Corporation will participate in the provision of test benches and technical drawings, expanding the technological support base within the country.
In this regard, Asha Belarski, General Manager of Customer Support and Sustainment for Defense and Systems at GE Aerospace, highlighted that the agreement “represents another chapter in the long-standing relationship between GE Aerospace and the Brazilian Air Force.” She also added that, through the provision of training and support, the operational success of the Gripen fleet and the expansion of Brazil’s defense capability will be reinforced. The agreement falls within the guidelines of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which govern the transfer of defense-related technical data and services.
The understanding follows a key year for the Brazilian Air Force, which in late 2025 confirmed the Full Operational Capability of its Gripen E fighters. This milestone was the result of a series of critical trials that included the certification of aerial refueling with Embraer KC-390 Millennium tactical transport aircraft, the first live launch of the MBDA Meteor air-to-air missile, and cannon firing exercises with the Mauser BK-27. With these validations, the Gripen system reached full technological maturity, effectively integrating into the national air defense structure.
According to the revised planning of the F-X2 program, Saab and Embraer will complete the delivery of the 36 Gripen E/F aircraft ordered by the FAB in 2032. This new schedule, adjusted for industrial and budgetary reasons, foresees the delivery of a single unit during 2026, followed by an increasing production pace in subsequent years. Despite delays compared to the original plan, the continuity of the program ensures the consolidation of strategic capabilities, the expansion of technology transfer, and the strengthening of Brazil’s Defense Industrial Base.
With the incorporation of direct technical support from GE Aerospace and the progressive sustainment of the Gripen fleet, the Brazilian Air Force is consolidating a position of regional leadership in combat aviation. Equipped with AESA radar, next-generation electronic warfare systems, and MBDA Meteor BVRAAM air-to-air missiles, the F-39E will become the cornerstone of the country’s air defense in the coming decades, following the retirement of the F-5M Tiger II in the years ahead.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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