Trollhättan, Sweden — Saab and GKN Aerospace have signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen Swedish capabilities in engine and propulsion systems for the Gripen E/F fighter aircraft.
According to Saab, the agreement establishes the foundation for closer cooperation between the two companies on the Gripen E/F engine. The Swedish government recently decided to strengthen Sweden’s national capability and expertise related to the aircraft’s engine and has tasked Saab and GKN Aerospace with creating the conditions needed to achieve that objective.
Under the agreement, GKN Aerospace will progressively take on a greater role in engine-related activities for the Gripen E/F programme. Its responsibilities will include providing expertise, capacity and technical support related to the aircraft’s propulsion system.
Johan Segertoft, head of Saab’s Gripen business unit, said the cooperation agreement lays the foundation for establishing GKN Aerospace as Saab’s partner in engine-related matters for the Gripen E/F. He said the cooperation will support Sweden’s fighter aircraft capability and domestic industrial capacity.
The agreement also builds on an existing relationship between Saab and GKN Aerospace. The companies already cooperate on the engine used by the Gripen C/D, while the new agreement specifically extends their cooperation to the Gripen E/F.
GKN Aerospace to Expand Its Role
GKN Aerospace has existing experience supporting Gripen propulsion systems. Saab previously reported that GKN Aerospace holds the type certificate for the RM12 engine used by the Gripen C/D and provides product support for the engine throughout its service life.
The Gripen E/F uses the RM16, the Swedish designation for the aircraft's engine. Saab has previously described the RM16 as the successor to the RM12.
The latest agreement does not announce a change to the Gripen E/F engine. Instead, it establishes a broader cooperation framework under which GKN Aerospace will gradually assume a larger role in engine-related matters.
Focus on Swedish Industrial Capability
The agreement is part of Sweden’s effort to strengthen domestic knowledge and capability related to the Gripen E/F propulsion system. For Saab, the cooperation is also intended to support the continued development and availability of the Gripen while strengthening its industrial capability in Sweden.
GKN Aerospace’s expanded role will include technical expertise and support capacity for the Gripen E/F programme. The company’s existing experience with the Gripen C/D engine provides the basis for the new cooperation.
The agreement comes as the Gripen E/F programme continues to expand internationally. Saab reported on October 7 that the first Gripen E produced in Brazil had completed its maiden flight, marking another step in the programme’s international production activities.
Neither Saab’s announcement nor the information provided specifies the financial value of the new cooperation agreement or a detailed timetable for GKN Aerospace’s expanded responsibilities.
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