Brazil unveils first domestically produced supersonic fighter jet

Brazil presented its first domestically produced supersonic fighter jet on Wednesday, March 25, marking a major step into the elite group of nations capable of manufacturing advanced combat aircraft.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva officially christened the F‑39E Gripen, developed by Swedish aerospace group Saab, with champagne during a high-profile ceremony in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo, as per foreign media reports.

The Brazilian presidency described the construction of the supersonic jet as “unprecedented in Latin America.”

“This project allows us to consolidate our deterrent power by enhancing our capacity to ensure national sovereignty and regional security,” said Brazil’s Defence Minister José Múcio during the ceremony.

Brazil has ordered 36 F‑39E Gripen jets from Saab, with 15 scheduled for production at Embraer’s Gavião Peixoto facilities. Brasília opted for the Swedish aircraft over France’s Dassault Rafale and the U.S. Boeing F/A‑18 Super Hornet.

The deal, originally awarded in 2014, faced corruption allegations. Lula was accused of receiving approximately one million dollars to help Saab win the tender during his first term. Investigations in Brazil and Sweden found no evidence of wrongdoing by Saab, and the case against Lula was dismissed.

The unveiling highlights Brazil’s focus on strengthening its defence capabilities amid global geopolitical tensions. President Lula has criticised the war in Iran involving the United States and Israel and condemned Washington’s military actions in Latin America, including its attempts to influence Venezuela.

During a recent official visit from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Lula warned that both nations could face foreign threats if they did not strengthen their defences. “I don’t know if comrade Ramaphosa realises that if we don’t prepare ourselves in terms of defence, one day someone will invade us,” Lula said.

By Tamilla Hasanova