Hanwha Aerospace Co., South Korea’s leading defense manufacturer, is set to build a precision missile production facility in Germany, marking a key step in its strategy to expand across the fast-growing European defense market.

The move reflects the company’s broader ambition to establish a strong industrial presence in Europe, driven by the region’s historic levels of defense spending and its strategic shift toward localizing arms production.

At a recent investor and stakeholder briefing in Berlin, Hanwha’s European subsidiary announced plans to scout multiple sites in eastern Germany for its first manufacturing plant in the country. Sources familiar with the matter said this marks the first time the company has publicly confirmed plans for a German production base.

Over 100 representatives from German government agencies and defense industry partners attended the event.

Historically, Hanwha relied on German technology to power its flagship K9 self-propelled howitzer. That dependency was reduced in 2023 after the company began using domestically produced engines from South Korea’s STX Engine Co., enabling smoother exports, especially to the Middle East.

The planned German plant will serve as a production hub for advanced weapons systems, including guided missiles and ammunition. Hanwha Aerospace has already partnered with more than 60 German suppliers and plans to pursue joint R&D initiatives, develop integrated supply chains, and invest in local talent.

“We are committed to building cutting-edge defense capabilities in close cooperation with our German partners,” said Bae Jin-kyu, head of Hanwha Aerospace’s European operations.

Germany is a centerpiece in Hanwha’s broader European strategy, which also includes projects in Poland and Romania. In Poland, Hanwha has formed a joint venture with WB Group to manufacture Chunmoo rocket launchers and guided missiles. In Romania, the company has selected a site for a new plant to produce K9 howitzers and K10 ammunition resupply vehicles, with construction expected to begin this year and operations starting by 2027.

In July 2024, Hanwha signed a 1.4 trillion won ($1 billion) deal with Romania to supply 54 K9 howitzers and 36 K10 ARVs. These systems are powered by engines from MTU Aero Engines and transmissions from Renk Group AG—both German companies.

Previously, Hanwha’s reliance on German technology hindered its global ambitions. In 2020, the company had to withdraw from a major K9 export deal with the United Arab Emirates after Berlin blocked arms sales to the Middle East.

Now, Hanwha’s German expansion aligns closely with the European Union’s push for defense self-sufficiency. In May, the European Commission announced a €800 billion ($903 billion) defense industry strategy through 2030, prioritizing European-made military systems.

To support its global growth, Hanwha Aerospace plans to finance its overseas ventures through a 2.3 trillion won rights offering announced in April. About 1.6 trillion won will be allocated to international defense projects, the company said.

As nations intensify efforts to combat climate change, the global spotlight is increasingly focused on hydrogen as a clean energy carrier — and Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells are emerging as a leading technology in this transition. With high energy efficiency, scalability, and zero emissions at the point of use, PEM fuel cells are seeing growing adoption across transportation, industrial, and energy sectors.

In particular, China is becoming a major hub for PEM fuel cell development, creating an urgent and rapidly expanding demand for specialized talent — especially Fuel Cell Control Experts.

What Are PEM Fuel Cells and Why Do They Matter?

Proton Exchange Membrane (also called Polymer Electrolyte Membrane) fuel cells generate electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water and heat as byproducts. Unlike combustion engines, PEM fuel cells operate silently, emit no pollutants, and offer a fast response to load changes, making them ideal for mobile and distributed energy applications.

They are especially suitable for:

• Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) — buses, trucks, and cars

• Backup and off-grid power systems

• Material handling equipment like forklifts

• Portable and military power solutions

Why the Sector Is Booming

1. China’s Hydrogen Push

China has made hydrogen a strategic priority in its national energy strategy. Cities and provinces are rolling out ambitious hydrogen roadmaps, aiming to build thousands of hydrogen refueling stations and put tens of thousands of FCVs on the road by 2030.

This aligns with China’s dual goals of reducing urban air pollution and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.

2. Government Incentives and Industrial Policy

Generous government subsidies, infrastructure investment, and joint ventures between domestic firms and global fuel cell companies have accelerated technology deployment and commercial adoption.

3. Decentralized Energy Systems

PEM fuel cells are being adopted beyond transportation, including in telecom towers, residential buildings, and emergency backup systems — all of which benefit from clean, quiet, and reliable energy.

The Critical Need for Fuel Cell Control Expertise

As PEM fuel cell systems become more widespread and complex, their performance, safety, and reliability hinge on advanced control systems.

Fuel Cell Control Experts are vital in the following ways:

• System Optimization: They design and fine-tune the balance of plant (BoP) — including air supply, cooling, and hydrogen management.

• Safety Management: They implement fault detection, thermal control, and pressure regulation to prevent system failure.

• Software & Embedded Systems: Experts develop real-time control algorithms and integrate software with the fuel cell stack, vehicle systems, or grid interfaces.

• Diagnostics & Prognostics: Predictive maintenance and degradation modeling are crucial for system longevity and commercial viability.

As systems scale from lab prototypes to mass-market deployment, the sophistication of control architecture becomes a make-or-break factor.

Talent Gap and Industry Implications

Despite the urgency, there is a global shortage of professionals with deep experience in PEM fuel cell control — particularly in China, where demand has outpaced local training and expertise development. Many companies are:

• Expanding internal training programs

• Partnering with universities and research institutes

• Recruiting internationally to fill knowledge gaps

The pressure to commercialize fuel cell vehicles and infrastructure within tight policy timelines is intensifying the need for skilled engineers, especially those with cross-disciplinary knowledge in electrochemistry, control systems, embedded hardware, and software integration.

What’s Next?

As the energy transition accelerates, PEM fuel cell control experts are becoming indispensable across industries. Their work not only ensures system safety and efficiency but also enables scalability — which is critical for widespread adoption.

In the coming years, we can expect:

• Increased international collaboration to address talent shortages

• Growing investment in education and upskilling programs

• More career opportunities in hydrogen hubs like China, Germany, Japan, and the U.S.

Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cells are no longer emerging tech — they’re becoming a core component of the clean energy landscape. As China and other major economies push forward with hydrogen infrastructure and fuel cell vehicle deployment, the demand for control system expertise will only intensify.

For engineers, researchers, and technologists, now is the time to engage. The future of clean energy will be shaped not only by chemistry and hardware — but by the software and control systems that make PEM fuel cells run safely, efficiently, and at scale.

If you are a specialist in this field and looking to make a meaningful impact in the next phase of clean energy innovation, we invite you to explore current opportunities. Submit your CV for active roles in this sector at:https://www.icautochina.com/job-search/22-fuel-cell-sealing-expert-contract-job-china/senior-engineering-expat-contracts/baoding/job

China is accelerating its emergence as a global technological powerhouse, largely driven by an ambitious surge in research and development (R&D) capacity. At the heart of this transformation is a rapidly expanding class of STEM PhD holders, many of whom are shaping the future of automotive innovation and other advanced industries.

While China’s progress inspires admiration, it also raises questions among international observers — particularly in the United States — about the implications for global technological leadership, economic security, and national competitiveness.

A Surge in STEM PhDs: Quantity with Rising Quality

According to a 2021 report by Georgetown University’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET), China is expected to produce over 77,000 STEM PhDs annually by 2025, nearly twice the number of the U.S., and more than triple when excluding U.S. international students. This rapid expansion is the product of deliberate national strategy: since the early 2000s, China has opened over 1,300 new PhD programs and nearly doubled its higher education budget between 2012 and 2021.

Although skeptics argue that "more" does not always mean "better," the quality of Chinese doctoral education is also on the rise, particularly within its top-tier “Double First Class” universities. These institutions now produce nearly half of the country’s PhDs and are key to China’s global research contributions, particularly in AI, materials science, and engineering.

The Automotive Sector: A National Priority

R&D engineers with doctoral degrees are in exceptionally high demand in China’s automotive sector, which is undergoing a massive transformation fueled by government policy and market pressure. Areas of urgent recruitment include:

• Autonomous Driving & AI Models

• Electric Drive & Battery Management Systems

• Intelligent Cockpits & Infotainment

• Crash Analysis, EE System Engineering

• Hydrogen Fuel Cell and Advanced Lighting

These engineers are not just developing technologies — they are leading them. PhD holders often serve as principal investigators, system architects, and innovation leaders, translating cutting-edge science into commercial products for OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.

Exceptional Incentives and Global Opportunities

To attract global experts, Chinese companies and research parks are offering one- to five-year contracts, full relocation support, and salaries well above global averages, particularly for those with OEM or Tier 1 experience. The financial packages often include housing, healthcare, education for children, and bonuses tied to project success.

For foreign STEM PhDs, China represents both opportunity and challenge — a dynamic environment where R&D teams are large, well-funded, and increasingly competitive. Many roles are open to international candidates, especially in innovation hubs like Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Wuhan.

A Talent Race with Global Consequences

As Yojana Sharma noted in University World News, the U.S. is now reassessing its position in the global "war for talent." Historically, U.S. dominance in research has relied on its ability to attract and retain foreign PhD talent, especially from Asia. But with rising concerns over immigration policy, national security, and foreign student restrictions, that edge may be eroding.

Meanwhile, China’s self-sufficiency strategy continues to bear fruit. The majority of Chinese STEM PhDs are domestic nationals trained at home, many of whom now choose to stay and work in China rather than seek opportunities abroad. With the number of top-tier Chinese PhDs rising — especially in engineering and AI — the foundation for long-term innovation leadership is being laid.

Conclusion: Talent Is the True Technology

While the U.S.–China rivalry in technology often centers on hardware or patents, the real race is for human capital — the minds capable of building the future. PhD-level R&D engineers are the vanguard of this movement. In China, they are empowered with resources, respected as thought leaders, and tasked with executing one of the most ambitious national innovation agendas in modern history.

For the world, this signals a shift. For R&D professionals, it presents a unique window of opportunity. If you are a doctorate-level engineer with expertise in cutting-edge automotive technologies and are ready to take your career to the next level in China, we invite you to apply by submitting your CV to our current job offerings: https://www.icautochina.com/job-search/19-doctoral-contract-jobs-china-250k-350k-pa/technical-rd-consultant/shanghai/job

Swedish electric aircraft startup Heart Aerospace is relocating its headquarters from Gothenburg to Los Angeles in a move it says will accelerate the development of its hybrid-electric passenger plane.

The transition will result in the layoff of all 75 employees in Sweden, according to company spokesperson Christina Zander. "Recruitment in the US is ongoing," she told TNW.

Founded in 2018, Heart Aerospace is developing the ES-30, a 30-seat hybrid-electric regional airliner. The first prototype, dubbed X1, is expected to take its maiden flight later this year.

Tobias Bengtsdahl, a partner at Stockholm-based VC firm Antler, said the decision underscores deeper issues in Europe’s tech ecosystem. “Europe’s over-regulation and lack of market appetite are actively driving innovation away,” he said. “Moves like this only reinforce the perception that the US is the better environment for building cutting-edge companies.”

To date, Heart Aerospace has raised nearly $200 million from investors including Breakthrough Energy Ventures, founded by Bill Gates, and the Swedish government. CEO and founder Anders Forslund said the relocation would allow the company to better concentrate its resources.

“Our customers, partners, and investors are increasingly based in the US,” Forslund said. “By consolidating operations in Los Angeles, we can move faster, collaborate more effectively, and strengthen our position for the future.”

The shift had been foreshadowed by several recent developments. In May 2024, Heart opened a research and development hub in Los Angeles. It previously conducted its first test flight in the US and secured a $4.1 million contract from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Heart has already booked 250 firm orders and 191 letters of intent for the ES-30. US airlines United and Mesa are among the major customers, while Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Sweden’s Braathens Regional Airlines, and Icelandair have signed letters of intent covering 96 aircraft in total.

Despite the move, Zander emphasized that Heart's European partnerships remain intact. “Our Scandinavian investors and suppliers are still key collaborators,” she said. “Relocating to the US is a strategic step for prototype development, but Europe remains an essential part of our broader ecosystem.”

India has finalized a deal to purchase 26 Rafale fighter jets from France, the Ministry of Defence announced yesterday, expanding its fleet as part of a broader push to modernize its military forces.

The multi-billion-dollar agreement, signed between the two governments, will provide India with both single-seat and twin-seat variants of the Rafale, manufactured by French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation. These new jets will join the 36 Rafales India previously acquired, further strengthening its air power.

According to the Defence Ministry, the package includes not just the aircraft, but also training services, simulators, weapons, related equipment, and long-term maintenance support. Of the 26 jets, 22 will be single-seaters and four will be twin-seaters. The deal also covers additional equipment upgrades for the Indian Air Force’s existing Rafale fleet.

The jets are intended for deployment on India’s domestically built aircraft carriers, where they will replace aging Russian-made MiG-29K fighters.

India first announced its plans to buy these additional Rafales during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France for Bastille Day celebrations in 2023.

Although India has historically relied on Russia for much of its military hardware, it has increasingly diversified its defense partnerships, making major acquisitions from France, the United States, and Israel in recent years.

Dassault Aviation praised the deal, stating the Rafales would provide India with advanced military capabilities and strengthen its role as a leading global power. The company also noted that India’s navy would become the first international operator of the Rafale Marine variant.

The signing of the agreement comes at a tense moment, as relations between India and Pakistan have deteriorated following a deadly militant attack in Kashmir on April 22 that left 26 people dead. Since the attack, tensions have escalated with diplomatic expulsions, border closures, and exchanges of gunfire, fueling concerns about a potential military confrontation.

India’s earlier contract for 36 Rafale jets, signed in 2016, was valued at around $9.4 billion.

As the world’s fifth-largest economy and most populous nation, India is increasingly seen as a crucial market by major arms suppliers. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India became the world’s largest arms importer between 2019 and 2023, accounting for nearly 10% of all global weapons imports.

Sweden has announced plans to supply the Ukrainian Air Force with JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, providing a much-needed boost to Ukraine’s air capabilities. As Ukraine faces an urgent need for Western fighter aircraft, the Gripen—Sweden’s most advanced multirole combat jet—stands out as a formidable addition to Ukraine’s defense arsenal.

With Sweden and Finland on the cusp of fully integrating into NATO after decades of neutrality, the decision to supply Gripens marks a significant geopolitical shift. It also highlights Sweden’s increasing role in European security and its commitment to supporting Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression.

The Saab JAS 39 Gripen: Sweden’s Most Impressive Fighter Jet

While many Americans associate the name Saab primarily with automobiles, the Swedish company has a long and storied history in aerospace and defense. Founded in Stockholm in 1937, Saab has been a leading innovator in aviation technology, producing renowned fighter jets such as the Tunnan, Lansen, Draken, and Viggen. The company remains a key player in global military aviation, collaborating with Boeing to develop the U.S. Air Force’s T-7 Red Hawk jet trainer.

The Gripen was developed as a successor to the aging Draken and Viggen aircraft, incorporating cutting-edge technology to ensure superior performance. Sweden sought a fighter that could achieve speeds of Mach 2, operate from short runways, and maintain a smaller footprint than the Viggen while carrying an increased payload. Before Saab was selected to develop an entirely new airframe, Sweden considered foreign alternatives, including the F-16, F/A-18, F-20, and Mirage 2000.

The Gripen’s Evolution and Challenges

Developing advanced fighter jets has always been a challenging and highly scrutinized process, and the Gripen was no exception. The aircraft encountered setbacks during its early testing phase, most notably two crashes that drew significant attention and criticism.

The first incident occurred in 1989 when test pilot Lars Rådstrom lost control on landing due to a pitch control error in the fly-by-wire system, resulting in a crash. The second accident took place in 1993 when Rådstrom ejected from the aircraft after a loss of control during a low-altitude roll. Investigations revealed that the issue stemmed from the aircraft’s flight control system amplifying the pilot’s joystick inputs. These setbacks required extensive corrections and system refinements, but ultimately, they led to the Gripen’s enhanced reliability and combat readiness.

Gripen vs. Russian Fighters: Implications for Ukraine

With Sweden’s NATO accession, the Gripen is likely to be compared to Russian fighter jets, particularly in the context of Ukraine’s ongoing war. While direct conflict between Sweden and Russia remains unlikely, Stockholm’s decision to supply Gripens to Ukraine serves multiple strategic purposes.

Firstly, it provides Ukraine with a highly capable fighter jet that has been designed for rapid deployment, electronic warfare, and adaptability in modern combat scenarios. Secondly, it allows Ukraine to battlefield-test the Gripen against Russian aircraft, providing valuable data on its effectiveness against adversaries like the Su-35 and MiG-31. Lastly, Sweden’s move contributes to prolonging Russia’s military engagement, further complicating Moscow’s strategic ambitions in the region.

The Future of Sweden’s Role in European Defense

By equipping Ukraine with Gripen fighter jets, Sweden is not only reinforcing Ukraine’s air power but also cementing its own position as a critical player in European defense. This decision underscores the shift in Sweden’s defense policy—from neutrality to active military support for its allies—and signals Sweden’s readiness to challenge Russian aggression through strategic military assistance.

As Ukraine continues to defend its sovereignty, the arrival of Gripen fighters could prove to be a game-changer in the ongoing war, offering advanced air capabilities that could tilt the balance in favor of Ukrainian forces. With Sweden now a member of NATO, its contributions to European security are set to grow, shaping the alliance’s strategic posture in the years to come.

The electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) sector has faced turbulent times in recent months, with some of Europe’s most promising players, Lilium and Volocopter, encountering severe financial difficulties. At one point, Lilium appeared on the brink of bankruptcy, raising serious concerns about the viability of the entire industry.

However, in what seemed like a Christmas miracle, the German-based eVTOL manufacturer managed to secure a fresh round of investment, allowing it to continue pursuing its ambitious urban air mobility vision. This financial boost came at a crucial time, offering Lilium a much-needed lifeline to further develop its cutting-edge aircraft technology.

Just as Lilium regained stability, reports surfaced that Volocopter, another major player in the eVTOL space, was also on the verge of collapse. These setbacks led many to question whether the Jetsons-style dream of air taxis was slowly slipping into oblivion. However, recent developments prove otherwise—the industry continues to attract investment, and innovation in aerospace technology remains strong.

Despite these challenges, several European aerospace startups are making remarkable progress, proving that the sky is still the limit. From hydrogen-powered jets to next-generation regional aircraft, these companies are shaping the future of aviation.

European Aerospace Startups to Watch in 2025

Airvolve (Lithuania) – Next-Gen Tactical Transport

✈️ Developing heavy-lift aerial vehicles for cargo, rescue, and defense
✈️ 10x lower costs than helicopters, 60 km range
✈️ €825K funding, USPTO patent pending

Beyond Aero (France) – Hydrogen-Powered Business Jets

✈️ First hydrogen-electric business jet, 1,500 km range
✈️ $20M funding (Giant Ventures, Bpifrance, Airbnb & Dropbox founders)
✈️ Building world’s most powerful Hydrogen Powertrain Lab

Heart Aerospace (Sweden) – Hybrid-Electric Regional Travel

⚡ 30-seat ES-30 hybrid-electric airliner, up to 800 km range
⚡ $107M Series B funding (Air Canada, United Airlines, Breakthrough Energy)
⚡ First test flights in 2025

Destinus (Switzerland/Netherlands) – Supersonic & Hypersonic Aviation

⚡Developing hydrogen-powered supersonic aircraft
⚡Supersonic prototype in 2026, hypersonic aircraft by 2030
⚡ Relocated HQ to Netherlands for defense R&D

VÆRIDION (Germany) – Zero-Emission Microliners

✈️ 9-passenger electric aircraft, 500 km range
✈️ First General Aviation startup to begin EASA certification
✈️ €14M Series A funding (World Fund, Vsquared Ventures)

Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury has expressed optimism about the possibility of merging or aligning two separate European programs currently developing next-generation fighter jets and advanced combat air systems. These initiatives, spearheaded by different alliances, have been the subject of speculation regarding their financial and strategic viability.

In December, Britain, Italy, and Japan announced the formation of a joint effort to design and build a stealth fighter jet named the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). Simultaneously, France, Germany, and Spain are advancing the competing Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project. Defense analysts have long debated whether Europe has the resources or market demand to sustain two parallel initiatives of such scale.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Faury suggested that consolidating efforts or ensuring compatibility between the two programs would be a logical move.

Room for Collaboration

"I think there's really room to do things in a smart way," Faury stated. "Each and every country could contribute its financial and technological capacity to a bigger program for Europe, because that's what we need at the end."

Faury emphasized that while no definitive plans for collaboration exist, budgetary constraints and shared objectives might prompt governments to explore unification in the near future. He projected that discussions could begin within the next few years as technological development phases for both programs conclude.

The Path Toward Integration

According to Faury, the governments involved in FCAS and GCAP will need to convene at the appropriate time to assess the progress and objectives of their respective programs. "The governments ... need to sit down at the point in time when they have a clear view on what is FCAS, what is GCAP, what they want to achieve, and see what they can do better together," he explained.

The anticipated timeline for these discussions coincides with the completion of the initial technology phases for both programs, potentially within the next two years. However, Faury acknowledged that merging such large-scale efforts would be fraught with complexity.

"If you have too many players, it's a difficult thing," he cautioned, underscoring the challenges of coordinating among multiple stakeholders with differing priorities, financial commitments, and technological contributions.

Strategic Implications for Europe

The potential alignment of FCAS and GCAP would mark a significant shift in Europe's defense strategy, allowing the region to pool resources and expertise to compete on a global scale. A unified program could strengthen Europe's position in the advanced combat systems market while addressing concerns about fragmented investments and limited procurement orders.

Yet, bringing the two initiatives together would involve navigating political, industrial, and operational challenges. Differences in timelines, technology roadmaps, and strategic goals would need to be reconciled. Additionally, the integration of players from diverse nations, including non-European partner Japan in GCAP, adds another layer of complexity.

Heart Aerospace has announced that Plattsburgh International Airport in New York will host the inaugural flight of its all-electric Heart-X1 (H-X1) demonstrator, scheduled for the second quarter of 2025.

This decision marks a key step toward realizing the company’s vision for electric aviation. The full-scale H-X1 demonstrator, featuring a 32-meter wingspan, was unveiled in September 2024, with the company expressing its ambition to fly the aircraft the following year. Plattsburgh was chosen for its expansive airfield infrastructure, low air traffic density, and strong regional support for transportation technology innovation. The aircraft is set to be transported to the site in early 2025.

Currently stationed at Heart’s Gothenburg, Sweden headquarters, the H-X1 is undergoing rigorous testing of critical systems in preparation for its historic all-electric flight. Heart Aerospace co-founder and CEO Anders Forslund highlighted the team’s achievement: “It is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of our team that we’ve been able to roll out a 30-seat aircraft demonstrator with a brand-new propulsion system, largely in-house, in less than two years.”

Advancing Electric Aviation with the HX-2 and ES-30

Following the H-X1, Heart Aerospace plans to develop a second pre-production model, the HX-2, which will further refine the company’s design and production techniques. The HX-2 is slated for a hybrid-electric first flight in 2026.

The initial flight campaign of the H-X1 will play a pivotal role in validating Heart’s electric propulsion technology, shaping the development of its flagship project, the ES-30 hybrid-electric regional airliner. The ES-30 is designed to accommodate 30 passengers with an all-electric range of 200 km and an extended hybrid range of 400 km. Certification for the ES-30 is targeted by the end of the decade.

Pioneering Regional Air Mobility

Forslund emphasized the potential of electric aviation to transform regional air travel: “Electric commercial airplanes have the potential to lower operating costs for US airlines, creating a powerful opportunity to re-establish regional air routes. We’re impressed by the leadership shown by New York’s North Country region in supporting the next generation of airplanes.”

Heart Aerospace’s commitment to innovation and sustainability positions it as a leader in the push for greener, more efficient regional air travel. The upcoming inaugural flight at Plattsburgh International Airport represents a significant milestone in this journey.

Swedish defense manufacturer Saab has formally presented an offer to Colombia for the sale of an undisclosed number of Gripen fighter jets and is pursuing a similar potential deal with Peru, according to Saab CEO Micael Johansson.

Colombia’s interest in the Gripen jets follows a recent report from Swedish public radio that suggested the country was considering purchasing a fleet of JAS Gripen jets, which Saab produces in part through a joint manufacturing line in Brazil.

"We’ve extended a comprehensive offer, and Colombia is evaluating it," Johansson stated. "We believe our offer is strong, but of course, there’s always competition."

The push in Colombia aligns with Saab's expanding presence in Brazil. Over the weekend, Brazil increased its own order of JAS 39 Gripen fighters by 25%, with an agreement that also included Sweden's acquisition of Brazilian aerospace company Embraer's C-390 military cargo planes. A letter of intent was signed between Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson and Brazilian Defense Minister Jose Mucio, with a final contract still pending.

This increased demand has bolstered Saab's manufacturing operations in Brazil, with additional Gripens slated to be assembled at Embraer’s Gaviao Peixoto facility in São Paulo, where production began last year. Saab and Embraer aim to position the facility as a regional hub for Gripen production, facilitating further deals across Latin America.

Saab’s expansion strategy in the region could extend beyond Colombia. Johansson noted that Saab is also actively engaged in discussions with Peru, which has reportedly set aside funding to begin its acquisition process for new fighter jets.

"Brazil serves as an ideal base to support sales in South America," Johansson said, adding that while Colombia’s negotiations are further along, Peru presents another promising opportunity as they have established a budget for aircraft purchases.

Saab's efforts in Latin America come as part of its broader strategy to grow its market presence in the region, capitalizing on its Brazilian production capabilities to meet regional demand. Following the weekend's announcements, Saab’s stock rose approximately 4% on Monday, reflecting investor optimism regarding Saab's progress in Latin America.