Saab CEO Says Warplane Maker Could Join U.K.-Led Fighter Program

  • ‘Intensive’ discussions underway on Tempest collaboration
  • Focus on future programs elsewhere could boost Gripen sales

A Saab Gripen fighter jet.

Photographer: Dhiraj Singh/Bloomberg
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Saab AB, maker of the Gripen warplane, said it’s interested in joining a U.K.-led project to develop a cutting-edge combat aircraft that would be a mainstay of defense programs in two decades time.

While Saab is also evaluating a rival Franco-German fighter plan, the Tempest program funded by Britain’s Ministry of Defence and including BAE Systems Plc and Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc has more appeal for the Swedish company, Chief Executive Officer Hakan Buskhe said Friday.