FAB and Swedish Air Force discuss cooperation and modernization of air forcesFAB and Swedish Air Force discuss cooperation and modernization of air forces

During the meeting, plans were discussed for the acquisition of KC-390 and F-39 aircraft, as well as strengthening the strategic partnership between Brazil and Sweden in Defense

Air Force Agency, by Lieutenant Eniele Santos

On November 12, the Commander of the Air Force, Air Brigadier Marcelo Kanitz Damasceno, received the Commander of the Swedish Air Force (Svenska flygvapnet or just Flygvapnet), Major General Jonas Wikman, who was accompanied by the Swedish Defense Attaché in Brazil, Air Colonel Jan Marcus Björkgren.

During the meeting, Major General Jonas Wikman highlighted the possibility of re-equipping the Swedish Air Force with the acquisition of the KC-390 Millennium aircraft, manufactured in Brazil. He highlighted the qualities of the Brazilian aircraft, including its versatility, operational, logistical and technological capabilities. “The professionalism, operability and attitude demonstrated by the Brazilian pilots and technicians involved in the deployment of the aircraft are admirable,” he said.

The Swedish Air Force Commander also expressed his intention to reach the same operational, doctrinal and logistical level achieved by the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) with the KC-390 by early 2026, emphasizing the success of the aircraft program in Brazil.

In this regard, Air Brigadier Damasceno reaffirmed the FAB’s plans to acquire 36 F-39 (Gripen E/F) fighters, which are already underway, as well as the intention to increase the current contract by 25%. He also highlighted the urgent need to expand the FAB’s fleet of fighter aircraft, considering Brazil’s continental dimensions and the challenges posed by instability on the international stage.

“We are experiencing a special moment in the Brazilian Air Force, with the achievement of high operational rates with the F-39 Gripen and KC-390 Millennium aircraft, which were evidenced during Exercise Cruzeiro do Sul, CRUZEX, held in Natal from November 3 to 15. This exercise marked a breakthrough, especially in the performance of the Gripen project,” said the Commander of the Air Force.

Coordination and precision: Mission planning at CRUZEX 2024

Finally, both Commanders agreed on the importance of further strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the area of Defense, with an emphasis on strengthening scientific and technological collaboration, as well as partnerships for the acquisition, training and exchange of knowledge in strategic projects.

Photos: Sergeant P.Silva/ CECOMSAER

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