The Canadian Armed Forces would need to buy 72 Gripen fighter jets and six GlobalEye surveillance aircraft for Swedish manufacturer Saab to deliver on its pledge of creating 12,600 jobs in Canada, CBC News has learned.
Government and industry sources said Saab’s proposals for both aircraft are currently being studied by experts in defence matters and economic benefits in Ottawa.
Top officials from Saab said late last year that they could create about 10,000 jobs in Canada, but the exact size of the aircraft orders required to reach that number had not yet been made public.
The Swedish company’s projects are being met with considerable interest within the Carney government, which is seeking to diversify Canada’s source of military equipment and strengthen the industrial sector battered by tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Saab wants Canada to buy 72 Gripens and 6 GlobalEyes to fulfil promise of 12,600 jobs | CBC News