CAE and Saab Sign MoU on Training and Mission Support Solutions for Gripen

Canada – CAE and Swedish defense manufacturer Saab have signed a memorandum of understanding covering Gripen fighter training and mission support in Canada, conditional on the aircraft becoming part of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s future capability.

• The MoU covers four core training and support functions: advanced pilot training, simulator operations, technician training and sustainment services.
• CAE would establish and operate a Canadian training ecosystem for Gripen pilots and technicians, including Canadian-specific simulator capabilities and live-aircraft training delivered by Canadian personnel.
• The companies would also cooperate on mission systems engineering, software development, verification and integration, with sensitive Canadian and NORAD-related operational information managed domestically.
• The arrangement would allow Canada to support future mission-system modifications and upgrades independently if the Gripen is selected. Research and development work on next-generation capabilities is also included.
• CAE and Saab may use the Canadian work scope as the basis for Gripen training, mission-support and sustainment opportunities in international markets.
• The agreement does not represent a Canadian Gripen aircraft order.
• Canada’s existing Future Fighter Capability Project is based on a finalized arrangement to acquire 88 F-35A aircraft to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CF-18 fleet.
• AFM previously reported that CAE and Saab signed a Canada-specific teaming agreement in May 2026 for training, mission systems and simulation support associated with Saab’s proposed GlobalEye airborne early warning and control capability. 

Statements

• “This agreement reflects a shared commitment to supporting Canada's long-term defence readiness, and we’re proud to serve Canada's men and women in uniform through world-class training, simulation, and mission systems support. Our collaboration with Saab can help strengthen Canada’s future fighter capability while creating meaningful opportunities for Canadian engineers, technicians, and aviation professionals,” said Matthew Bromberg, President and Chief Executive Officer at CAE.
• “Saab's approach has always been to build real capability in the countries where we operate,” said Micael Johansson, CEO of Saab. “Through this partnership with CAE, we would establish a world-class training and mission support capability in Canada, creating highly skilled jobs while ensuring critical knowledge, expertise, and operational data remain in Canadian hands.”

Source: CAE