# Saab and IMP sign teaming agreement for a Canadian Gripen assembly line The planned line depends on Canada buying Gripen E, with Magellan Aerospace and CAE also lined up for structures manufacturing and training. Published 2026-10-28 by TGOs. Canonical: https://tgos.io/news/2026/10/28/saab-and-imp-sign-teaming-agreement-for-a-canadian/ Saab announced Oct. 27 that it signed a teaming agreement with IMP to establish a Gripen final assembly line in Canada if the country acquires the aircraft.[1] IMP would also handle electrical assembly production and in-service support for Canada's Gripens.[1] The assembly plan sits alongside agreements for Canadian manufacturing and training, each conditional on Canada buying the fighter.[1] Saab signed a new memorandum of understanding with Magellan Aerospace for local manufacturing of advanced aerostructures, composite structures and structural assemblies.[1] An earlier memorandum with CAE covers fighter pilot and technician training, mission systems engineering, support and sustainment.[1] Defense News reports that Canada is examining whether to buy Gripen E as an alternative to the F-35 or alongside it.[2] Canada's commitment to buy 88 F-35s is under review, the outlet reports.[2] Canada has paid for 16 F-35s.[2] ## Why it matters Canada's fighter choice would determine whether Saab and its partners establish the proposed domestic production and support capability.[1] IMP Aerospace & Defence President David Gossen also sees an opportunity to produce and support aircraft for international Gripen customers.[1] ## Sources 1. Saab, Saab Announces Key Partners for Gripen Canada, Oct. 27, 2026 2. Defense News, If Canada picks the Gripen fighter, these local firms would help Saab deliver the jets, Oct. 28, 2026