26.03.2026 06:50
The first supersonic fighter jet produced in Brazil, the F-39E Gripen, was introduced with the participation of President Lula da Silva. Lula da Silva emphasized that this is a historic achievement, stating, "This success reinforces Brazil's sovereignty while also demonstrating our capacity to master advanced technologies, generating knowledge, employment, and development."
The first supersonic fighter jet produced in Brazil, the F-39E Gripen, was introduced at a ceremony attended by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
The fighter jet, a product of the strategic partnership between Swedish aerospace company Saab and Brazilian Embraer, was unveiled at a ceremony held in the Gaviao Peixoto area of Sao Paulo.
"THIS IS A HISTORIC ACHIEVEMENT"
In his speech at the ceremony, Lula da Silva emphasized that this is a historic achievement, stating, "This success reinforces Brazil's sovereignty while also demonstrating our capacity to master advanced technologies, producing knowledge, employment, and development."
Lula da Silva noted that the production of the aircraft in Brazil is the result of a strategic project that encompasses technology transfer, strengthening the national industry, and training a highly qualified workforce.
"IT WILL STRENGTHEN OUR DETERRENT CAPABILITY"
Defense Minister Jose Mucio Monteiro also highlighted the domestic production of the fighter jet, stating, "This project strengthens our deterrent capability while increasing our ability to guarantee national sovereignty and regional security."
PROCESS
According to news reports in the national press, the Brazilian Air Force signed a contract with Saab in 2014 for the purchase of a total of 36 Gripen fighter jets, with an agreement reached for 15 of these aircraft to be produced domestically at Embraer's facilities in Brazil.
The F-39E Gripen model stands out as a "smart fighter" thanks to its supersonic capacity, capable of reaching Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound), advanced sensor fusion, and digital cockpit supported by electronic warfare systems, and it draws attention with its versatile structure that can simultaneously perform air-to-air, air-to-ground, and intelligence missions.
Additionally, the aircraft has lower maintenance and flight costs compared to its competitors, providing a significant operational advantage for countries with vast geographies.