Facing high costs of the Gripen program, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) considers buying used American F-16 aircraft.
The FAB sees this as a temporary national defense solution. This announcement, confirmed by the FAB, has caused significant debate within military circles.
The FAB stated the analysis does not relate to Gripen’s capabilities. They have no negotiations with governments or companies.
They are collecting data without defined quantities or versions. However, this challenges the philosophy behind the Gripen program.
Financial concerns and project timelines drive this consideration. Sources in President Lula’s government believe this aims to pressure Sweden.
The government wants better terms for additional Gripen acquisitions. Last September, the government proposed a deal involving Embraer KC-390 cargo planes.
They plan to exchange these for an increase in the 2014 Gripen contract. The original Gripen deal cost 39.3 billion Swedish crowns, just below $4 billion today.
The Swedish government finances this over 25 years. However, the FAB must make advance payments.
From 2019 to 2023, payments reached R$7.7 ($1.45) billion, with R$1.2 billion last year. The current production pace makes the delivery schedule unfeasible.
The F-16 is abundant in global stockpiles. Ukraine chose it to bolster defenses against Russia.
Argentina, under President Javier Milei, bought 24 used F-16s from Denmark for $300 million.
This is a fraction of the estimated cost for 14 new Gripens. Brazil shows interest in 24 C/D generation F-16s, less obsolete than those bought by Argentina.
While the F-16 is less capable than the Gripen, it suits Brazil’s needs. Brazil’s air defense relies on modernized F-5s and AMX attack models.
Brazil Eyes Used F-16s Amid High Gripen Costs
These will be replaced by the Gripen. However, many units are nearing retirement. Shelf-ready F-16s could serve as an interim solution.
The seven Gripens already received are still in missile testing. Their first official mission is scheduled for November.
Brazil’s deal with Sweden includes Iris-T and Meteor missiles. The Iris-T can integrate into F-16s.
The Meteor missiles require more costly adaptations. Acquiring F-16s would not harm the Gripen program.
The FAB would replace F-5s with modern F-16s. They would budget for additional Saab fighters.
If FAB’s inquiry leads to US negotiations, it could harm Gripen’s image. The Gripen faces challenges in Europe.
Increasing orders for American F-35s pose a threat. Brazil has purchased 36 new-generation Gripen E/Fs.
Sweden has negotiated at least 60 aircraft. Despite joining NATO, Saab claims this does not hinder sales.
However, Hungary’s only new Gripen order was for the previous generation C/D model.
In the region, Chile and Venezuela operate F-16s. Argentina will join them soon.