The Gripen E is based on an American engine (F414). This means dependencies on licenses and authorizations. In a context of sovereignty, this is a point that needs to be addressed, not circumvented.
I wonder if a Canadian or European made engine is still possible. I guess anything is, at some a cost.
Investing in any aircraft with critical components controlled by Canada’s greatest current threat seems a poor strategy.
According to this brochure from SAAB:
But that’s from 2021, so maybe the current proposal is for a US made engine.
This from 2026 says:
I wonder if a Canadian or European made engine is still possible. I guess anything is, at some a cost.
Investing in any aircraft with critical components controlled by Canada’s greatest current threat seems a poor strategy.
Servicing of the engine would indeed be made in Canada: https://www.saab.com/markets/canada/press/saab-chooses-standardaero-to-maintain-gripen-engines-in-canada
You still need to purchase the engine and spare parts from GE.
I suppose Rolls Royce and Volvo could propose alternative engines, but I assume that’s as much dev, tests, certifications, so additional cost.
To my understanding, the plans for a Rolls-Royce engine have never moved forward and are not economical without a much larger market for the Gripens.