Brazil's First Domestic "Eagle Lion" Fighter Jet Officially Unveiled

Report Content

According to a report by Reference News on March 26, Brazilian news outlet 247 reported on March 23 that Brazilian President Lula will attend the official unveiling ceremony of the first supersonic fighter jet completely manufactured in Brazil on the 25th in São Paulo. This fighter jet, named F-39E "Gripen," represents a decisive step for Brazil in strengthening the autonomy of its defense technology.

The project is the result of a approximately $4 billion agreement signed between the Brazilian government and Sweden's Saab Group in 2013. The contract stipulates that Brazil will procure 36 "Gripen" fighter jets. More importantly, Sweden will transfer technology to the Brazilian Air Force and Embraer.

This model allows Brazilian engineers to participate directly from the initial stages of the fighter jet's development, even from the design phase. This ensures that Brazil can acquire advanced technology and master relevant aspects of the production chain. (Translated by Hong Muxuan)

Classification
Region
Latin America
Analytical Domain
Operational
Primary Category / Secondary Categories
Weapons & Equipment / Political-Military
Subcategory
New Weapon System
SALUTE Report
Size
36 aircraft
Activity
Official unveiling of the F-39E Gripen fighter jet
Location
São Paulo · Brazil
Unit
Brazilian Air Force
Time
March 25, 2023
Equipment
F-39E Gripen
Summary

Brazil officially unveiled its first domestically produced supersonic fighter jet, the F-39E Gripen, in São Paulo on March 25, 2023. This event marks a significant step in enhancing Brazil's defense technology autonomy, stemming from a $4 billion agreement with Sweden's Saab Group. The deal includes the acquisition of 36 aircraft and technology transfer to the Brazilian Air Force.

Key Facts
  • Brazil's first domestically produced supersonic fighter jet, the F-39E Gripen, was officially unveiled.
  • The event took place on March 25, 2023, in São Paulo.
  • The project is a result of a $4 billion agreement signed with Sweden's Saab Group in 2013.
  • Brazil will acquire 36 Gripen aircraft and receive technology transfer from Sweden.
  • Brazilian engineers will participate in the development and production of the aircraft.