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6 March 2026

Gripen E commences Quick Reaction Alert for the first time in Brazil

2 min read

Gripen E has officially commenced its QRA mission from Anápolis Air Base (GO). The activity, carried out for the first time since the beginning of the Gripen Programme in Brazil on 24 February, forms part of the permanent system for monitoring and protecting Brazilian airspace. For the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), this represents a new level of operational capability, air power and the strengthening of national sovereignty.

The aircraft now remains on standby 24 hours a day, prepared for immediate take-off whenever activated. With high availability, rapid response capability and supersonic performance, Gripen E can reach the Central Plateau region within minutes, contributing to the protection of the Federal Capital and other strategic areas of the country.

“With the commencement of the Brazilian Aerospace Defence Alert service, the F-39 Gripen has officially assumed responsibility for the defence of Brazilian airspace. The aircraft is ready to take off whenever required, fulfilling the core mission of our Force, which is to guarantee sovereignty over national airspace. Owing to the onboard technology incorporated into this aircraft, it possesses a high deterrent capability and places Brazil at the forefront in terms of air defence capacity,” stated the Commander of Anápolis Air Base, Lieutenant Colonel (Pilot) André Navarro de Lima Guimarães.

The entry of the Gripen E into the Quick Reaction Alert mission represents an important milestone in the evolution of the Gripen Programme in Brazil. The current operational capability is the result of a continuous process of development, certification and flight test campaigns conducted over the years, including air-to-air refuelling (AAR), integration and testing with the Meteor air-to-air missile, and the air-to-ground weapons campaign recently conducted in Natal (RN).

This new phase also reinforces the modernisation of Brazilian fighter aviation and highlights the strong cooperation between Saab, the Brazilian Air Force and national industry. The Gripen Programme continues to progress with a focus on developing competencies in Brazil and strengthening the Defence Industrial and Technological Base.

“The commencement of the QRA mission with the F-39E Gripen in Brazil represents a significant milestone for the Gripen Programme and for the operational capability of the Brazilian Air Force. We remain committed to the development of local competencies and the delivery of capabilities that contribute to the sovereignty and security of the country,” said Peter Dölling, Managing Director of Saab Brazil.

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