Colombia's recent agreement to acquire Saab Gripen E fighters is complicated by the fact that the aircraft's engine, the General Electric F414-GE-39E,, is a U.S.-made component subject to export controls.
Despite earlier reports and claims of a potential U.S. "veto," Saab maintains that all necessary licenses are in place, and a deal was finalized in November 2025. The situation highlights the U.S. strategy of using export controls to promote its own defense products, such as the F-16, while simultaneously trying to limit Russian and Chinese influence in the region.
The Gripen E/F and U.S. components
- Engine: The Gripen E/F uses the American-made General Electric F414-GE-39E engine,, which is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
- Impact on sales: This reliance on U.S. components has led to reports and concerns that the U.S. could block Gripen sales to countries like Colombia, potentially pushing them to choose U.S. aircraft instead.
- Recent developments: Despite these concerns, Colombia and Saab finalized a contract for 16 Gripen E fighters in November 2025,.
The United States' position
- Diplomatic pressure: The U.S. has reportedly exerted diplomatic and economic pressure on Colombia, promoting the F-16 fighter jet for its NATO interoperability.
- Strategic goals: This effort aligns with a broader U.S. strategy to dominate the arms market in Latin America and limit the influence of non-U.S. defense manufacturers.
- Export control as leverage: Blocking the sale of U.S.-made components has been used as a tactic to encourage countries to choose U.S. defense products.