Just before the federal budget presentation, the CEO of Saab, a Swedish industrial company, traveled to Ottawa to meet with a top Canadian official, indicating potential negotiations between the Canadian government and the military manufacturer.
Sources revealed that the meeting between Michael Sabia, the Privy Council clerk, and Micael Johansson on October 31 underscored Canada’s interest in procuring European military equipment and strengthening its local production capabilities.
Further indications are anticipated during the visit of Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia, along with a delegation including Sweden’s deputy prime minister, Ebba Busch, and defense minister Pål Jonson, accompanied by over 60 members of the Swedish business community from November 18 to 20.
The influential Wallenberg family, major stakeholders in companies like Ericsson and Saab, known for producing Gripen fighter jets and GlobalEye surveillance aircraft, will also be part of the delegation.
The visit, covering Ottawa and Montreal, aims to enhance Canada’s military ties with a fellow NATO and Arctic nation, following the Canadian government’s pledge of $82 billion for defense spending.
The delegation will visit Bombardier’s facilities in Montreal to showcase the potential collaboration between Saab and Bombardier in producing Gripens for the Canadian market, including possible ventures with countries like Ukraine.
“Saab is looking to expand its presence in Canada significantly in the near future, viewing Canada as an ideal partner with a skilled workforce to support global demand growth,” stated Simon Carroll, president of Saab Canada.
Christina Keighren from Business Sweden, the entity organizing the commercial delegation, emphasized the mutual need for collaboration between the two nations in the current complex global scenario.
The visit occurs against the backdrop of strained Canada-U.S. relations since the Trump administration, prompting Canada to reconsider its purchase of F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin due to concerns raised by President Trump.
While Canada remains committed to acquiring 16 F-35s, discussions are ongoing about potentially incorporating both F-35s and Gripens in the Royal Canadian Air Force fleet.
Experts highlight the cost-effectiveness of Gripen E compared to the F-35, but note the challenges of maintaining and operating two different fleets, particularly in terms of training and infrastructure.
Following the F-35 review, Bombardier executives engaged with Innovation Minister Mélanie Joly multiple times, with Joly organizing a visit to Saab’s Gripen-E fighter jet factory in Linköping, Sweden.
Canada sees the upcoming state visit led by King Carl as an opportunity to strengthen European partnerships.
A senior government source highlighted the strategic decision Canada faces in aligning closer with either the U.S. or Europe.
Radio