The flight testing to be performed by Embraer in Brazil will be fully integrated with the one started by Saab in 2017. According to the press release, the Brazilian tests will include testing of the flight control system, environmental control system and the behavior of the aircraft in tropical climate conditions, other than the testing of Brazilian specific systems, such as the encrypted Link BR2 communication system, and weapons integration.
The President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, Jackson Schneider, explained the extension of this partnership: “Embraer will play a leading role in the execution of the Gripen programme in Brazil and will be responsible for systems development, integration, flight testing, final assembly, and delivery of the aircraft in support of Brazilian Air Force operations. In terms of technology transfer, the Gripen is a great opportunity to increase our knowledge in the development and manufacturing of advanced combat aircraft.”
The partnership with Brazil began in 2014 with a contract for the development and production of 36 aircraft, 28 Gripen Es and eight twin-seat Gripen Fs, for the Brazilian Air Force, after 10 years of negotiations which left the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and Dassault Rafale defeated. A comprehensive decade-long technology transfer program will also benefit the development of the local aeronautics industry which are participating in the Brazilian Gripen program.
Major General Carl-Johan Edström, Commander of the Swedish Air Force, is satisfied with the cooperation with the South-American country: “Brazil is the perfect partner. Not only that they have the operational knowledge and an experienced aviation industry. They are also part of Gripen’s development. They are a partner who, just like us, is long-term in their outlook and commitment. And just like us, they want to build their capacity for the next 20 years and longer. I am very positive as to the future.”