Embraer rules out developing fighter jets, CEO says

Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer has ruled out designing and producing its own fighter jets, according to statements by CEO Francisco Gomes Neto reported by CNN Brasil. The planemaker intends to focus on other aviation segments while maintaining its existing industrial partnership with Sweden's Saab.

Embraer participates in assembling the Saab Gripen fighter at its Gavião Peixoto plant in Brazil. Under the original 2014 contract for 36 aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force, 15 jets were designated for local assembly. As of June 2026, 11 operational Gripen fighters have been delivered from that initial order.

The Gavião Peixoto facility has an estimated maximum annual production capacity of 20 aircraft. The site could see additional demand as Brazil formally announced interest in acquiring 20 more Gripen fighters, while Ukraine expressed intention to purchase 20 Saab Gripen E jets.

In South America, Colombia designated 15 Gripen E single-seat fighters for assembly at Gavião Peixoto, while two Gripen F two-seat models remain slated for production in Sweden. Embraer is also expanding its military transport sales, with the Swedish Air Force expecting delivery of its first C-390 aircraft in 2028.