Saab and GE Aviation Strengthen Ties with Brazilian Aerospace Industry

Saab’s technology transfer plan regarding Gripen NG for the Brazilian F-X2 fighter jet competition has been further strengthened by its partner GE Aviation signing MOU´s with several Brazilian aerospace companies. The MOU’s enable Brazilian suppliers to become a member of GE’s global supply chain and strengthens the in-country component of Saab’s Gripen NG proposal to the Brazilian Air Force.

The MOUs with Grauna Aerospace S.A., Increase Aviation Service Ltda., TAP Maintenance and Engineering, Avio do Brasil and AKAER provide local expertise in different areas of aircraft maintenance, manufacturing and engineering.

"GE Aviation is pleased to build on our excellent relationship with Brazil, where we have developed cutting edge technologies with local industry and launched our most recent technology research center in Rio de Janeiro,” said Tom Champion, GE Aviation Industrial Cooperation director. "With on-the-job training, GE will help build industrial capabilities in Brazil that will position the country to compete in the aerospace market for years to come."

The potential co-operation for GE Aviation is to develop programs with the Brazilian aerospace companies to establish long-term aircraft support within Brazil. The programs would include technology transfer as well as training in maintenance and assembly and engine inspection and testing.

“I am very pleased with the continued and extended support from GE that demonstrates their comittment to our joint activities in Brazil. Saab and GE has a long term sucessful partnership in the Gripen program,” said Åke Albertsson Saab Country Manager in Brazil.
Akaer is already participating in the Gripen NG programme including design, tooling and industrialization and in May 2012 Saab strengthened its relation with Akaer through a financial investment furthering yet another important step towards further future design, development and production of Gripen NG in Brazil.

Saab’s proposal for Gripen NG in Brazil includes a Technology Transfer plan to equip Brazilian industry with the necessary capabilities (skills & knowledge) to perform development, production and maintenance of the Gripen NG. 

The Transfer of Technology will be performed through hands-on development work and put into practice through the development, manufacturing, operation and future upgrade phases of the Gripen NG in Brazil. A strategic alliance with Brazilian industry where Brazil will become an equal partner in the development work of Gripen NG.