Defense & Military
Leonardo Extends Kuwait Eurofighter Support Contract Through 2029
Leonardo secures multi-year extension to support Kuwait’s Eurofighter fleet, enhancing Gulf defense capabilities and operational readiness.
The recent announcement of Leonardo’s multi-year in-service support contract extension for the Kuwait Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoon fleet is a pivotal development in Middle Eastern defense partnerships. This move highlights the increasing strategic importance of advanced military aviation in the Gulf region. On September 25, 2025, Kuwait’s Ministry of Defence exercised an option to extend Leonardo Aviation Services’ integrated logistics support and training at Salem Al Sabah Base through December 2029. This decision is part of Kuwait’s broader defense modernization efforts and underscores its commitment to maintaining one of the region’s most advanced air defense infrastructures.
The extension builds upon Kuwait’s original 2016 procurement of 28 Eurofighter Typhoons, valued at approximately $8.7 billion. The program has delivered significant capability advances for Kuwait, though it has also faced challenges related to cost oversight and corruption investigations. As Gulf states prioritize modernization amid ongoing regional tensions, the Leonardo-Kuwait partnership stands as a case study in the importance of sustained defense collaboration to ensure operational readiness and technological edge.
The origins of Kuwait’s Eurofighter program can be traced to the country’s broader strategy to modernize its military following decades of regional instability. Historically reliant on US-supplied platforms, Kuwait’s decision to procure the Eurofighter Typhoon from the European consortium marked a deliberate diversification in its defense procurement strategy. The Typhoon was selected for its advanced multirole capabilities, European technological sovereignty, and the comprehensive support packages offered by the consortium partners.
Kuwait’s focus on air defense modernization accelerated after the 1991 Gulf War, recognizing the need for robust deterrence against regional threats. The country’s strategic location at the head of the Gulf, its oil reserves, and its role as a key ally to the West have necessitated continued investment in advanced defense systems. Over time, Kuwait has balanced procurement from multiple suppliers to maintain technological parity and strategic autonomy.
Choosing the Eurofighter Typhoon over alternatives such as the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet reflected Kuwait’s interest in long-term viability, technology transfer, and industrial partnerships. The Eurofighter program, a collaboration among the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain, offered Kuwait access to a broad base of expertise and support, extending beyond the aircraft to training and maintenance. This approach fit Kuwait’s strategy of building sustainable, locally supported capabilities while remaining interoperable with allied forces, including those stationed at Ali Al Salem Air Base.
The 2016 contract for 28 Eurofighter Typhoons was one of Kuwait’s largest-ever defense acquisitions, with an estimated value of $8.7 billion. The order comprised 22 single-seat and six two-seat Tranche 3A variants, featuring the most advanced production standard available at the time. With this acquisition, Kuwait joined a select group of Eurofighter operators, including several European nations and Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar.
Kuwait’s Typhoons are equipped with advanced avionics, including the Captor-E AESA radar, PIRATE infrared search and track, and a comprehensive defensive aids subsystem. These features provide superior situational awareness and survivability, supporting both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The aircraft’s versatility was a key factor for Kuwait, allowing it to address a range of defense needs with a single platform.
The Eurofighter production process spans multiple European facilities, with final assembly for Kuwait’s jets conducted by Leonardo in Italy. This distributed model ensured the inclusion of the latest technology and manufacturing techniques. Deliveries began in late 2021, and by 2025, most aircraft were in service. The program also included extensive pilot and ground crew training, both in Kuwait and abroad, to ensure operational readiness. Integral to the program is a comprehensive training package delivered by Leonardo Aviation Services. This includes initial and recurrent training for pilots, maintenance technicians, and support staff. Training is conducted both at Salem Al Sabah Base and at international facilities, using advanced simulators and ground-based systems to ensure proficiency and safety.
The training infrastructure established in Kuwait incorporates modern facilities, simulation technology, and access to international technical support networks. This not only ensures current operational capability but also supports the development of Kuwait’s broader aerospace and defense industrial base.
By investing in local training and capability development, Kuwait is positioning itself as a potential regional center for Eurofighter operations, which may create additional economic and strategic opportunities in the future.
“The Eurofighter Typhoon’s advanced avionics and multirole capabilities were decisive factors in Kuwait’s selection, providing a technological edge in the region.”
The September 2025 extension of Leonardo’s support contract ensures continued integrated logistics, engineering, maintenance, and training services through 2029. Leonardo Aviation Services, established as a Kuwaiti company, delivers these services locally, reflecting both Kuwait’s emphasis on domestic capability development and Leonardo’s long-term commitment to its Gulf partners.
The extension covers scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, supply chain management, and ongoing training for air and ground crews. It also includes technical assistance for upgrades and modifications, ensuring Kuwait’s fleet remains technologically current. The local delivery model supports high aircraft availability and builds indigenous expertise for long-term sustainment.
This contract extension is strategically significant for both parties. For Kuwait, it guarantees operational readiness and supports economic diversification by developing local defense industry capacity. For Leonardo, it reinforces the company’s regional leadership in integrated defense solutions and secures a stable revenue stream in a competitive market.
The original Eurofighter contract, valued at around $8.7 billion, was one of the largest defense deals in the Gulf. However, it was not without controversy. Investigations by Kuwait’s Anti-Corruption Authority revealed cost inflation and procurement irregularities, leading to criminal charges against senior officials. These issues highlighted the importance of robust financial controls and transparency in large-scale defense programs.
Comparisons with similar regional acquisitions show significant variations in cost due to differences in configurations, support packages, and industrial participation. For example, Qatar’s 24 Typhoon order was estimated at $6.9 billion, while Saudi Arabia’s 72-aircraft deal was about $6 billion, albeit for an earlier generation. Such discrepancies underscore the complexity of defense procurement and the need for vigilant oversight. Despite these challenges, the program has had positive economic effects. The establishment of Leonardo Aviation Services in Kuwait has created local jobs and facilitated technology transfer, supporting the country’s goal of diversifying its economy beyond oil. Leonardo’s strong financial performance, with revenues of €17.8 billion in 2024 and a robust order backlog, demonstrates the value of long-term support contracts in sustaining both company growth and customer capability.
“Effective lifecycle management and local industrial participation are now essential elements of major defense programs, ensuring operational success and economic benefit.”
Kuwait’s Eurofighter Typhoons feature the latest Tranche 3A standard, including advanced radar, electronic warfare, and multirole weapon systems. The Captor-E AESA radar and PIRATE IRST provide superior detection and tracking, while the Defensive Aids Sub-System enhances survivability against modern threats.
The Typhoon’s multirole capability allows Kuwaiti pilots to switch between air-to-air and air-to-ground missions as needed. Precision-guided munitions and integration with advanced targeting systems enable effective engagement of both aerial and surface targets. These features are critical for Kuwait’s defense posture, given the dynamic security environment in the Gulf.
Operational data from Eurofighter users worldwide, including partner nations, indicates high reliability and mission readiness rates. In 2023-2024, Typhoon aircraft delivered 80% of operational missions for the core Eurofighter countries, underscoring the platform’s effectiveness and suitability for demanding operational environments.
Supporting a modern fighter fleet requires a complex, globally integrated supply chain. Leonardo’s approach for Kuwait includes procurement, inventory management, and partnerships with multiple European and international suppliers. This ensures timely delivery of spare parts, maintenance services, and upgrades.
Local industrial participation is increasingly important in defense deals. By establishing a Kuwaiti company for support services, Leonardo is meeting customer demands for technology transfer and local capability development. This approach enhances responsiveness and supports Kuwait’s long-term economic goals.
Advancements in predictive maintenance and condition-based logistics are also being implemented, allowing for proactive identification of potential issues and minimizing downtime. This not only reduces costs but also maximizes fleet availability and operational effectiveness.
Kuwait’s Eurofighter program must be viewed within the broader context of Gulf defense modernization. Regional military expenditures have increased significantly, with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members prioritizing advanced systems to address evolving threats. Saudi Arabia remains the largest spender, but Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar also invest heavily in modernization. The integration of Eurofighter Typhoons with US and coalition assets at bases like Ali Al Salem demonstrates Kuwait’s sophisticated approach to alliance management and interoperability. This dual-track procurement strategy allows Kuwait to access best-in-class technology from both the US and Europe, reducing dependency on any single supplier.
Ongoing regional conflicts and security challenges, such as those in Yemen, Syria, and Gaza, underscore the need for advanced air defense and precision strike capabilities. Kuwait’s investment in the Eurofighter program provides the country with tools to deter threats and contribute to regional stability through enhanced defense readiness.
“Sustained defense Partnerships like that between Leonardo and Kuwait are vital for maintaining technological edge and operational readiness in a rapidly evolving regional security environment.”
Leonardo’s multi-year extension for Eurofighter support services in Kuwait is more than a standard maintenance contract; it is a testament to the value of long-term, integrated defense partnerships. The program has evolved from a major procurement into a sustained operational capability, supported by local and international collaboration.
The success and ongoing development of Kuwait’s Eurofighter fleet reflect best practices in lifecycle management, technology transfer, and local capability building. As military modernization continues across the Gulf, the Leonardo-Kuwait partnership stands as a model for effective international cooperation, supporting both national security and broader economic objectives.
Q: What is the scope of Leonardo’s contract extension with Kuwait? Q: How many Eurofighter Typhoons did Kuwait procure? Q: What makes the Eurofighter Typhoon attractive for Kuwait? Q: Were there challenges in the procurement process? Q: How does this program fit into the regional context?
Leonardo Secures Multi-Year Extension for Kuwait Eurofighter Support Through 2029: Strategic Partnership Reinforces Gulf Defense Capabilities
Historical Context and Program Origins
The Kuwait Eurofighter Programme: Scope and Specifications
Training and Human Capital Development
Recent Contract Extension: Scope and Strategic Significance
Financial Analysis and Economic Implications
Technical Capabilities and Operational Performance
Supply Chain Management and Industrial Partnerships
Regional Defense Context and Strategic Implications
Conclusion
FAQ
A: The extension covers integrated logistics, engineering, maintenance, and training support for Kuwait’s Eurofighter Typhoon fleet through December 2029, delivered locally by Leonardo Aviation Services.
A: Kuwait ordered 28 Eurofighter Typhoons in 2016, including 22 single-seat and six two-seat aircraft, all to the advanced Tranche 3A standard.
A: Its advanced avionics, multirole flexibility, and comprehensive support packages make it a strong choice for both air defense and strike missions, while supporting Kuwait’s goals for technological advancement and local capability development.
A: Yes, the original program faced cost inflation and corruption investigations, highlighting the need for strong procurement oversight and transparency.
A: The Eurofighter program supports Kuwait’s defense modernization amid rising regional military spending and evolving security threats, while fostering strategic partnerships with both European and US defense suppliers.
Sources
Photo Credit: Leonardo
Defense & Military
Saab and GKN Aerospace Expand Gripen E/F Engine Support
Saab and GKN Aerospace signed a long-term agreement on Oct 8, 2026, to localize RM16 engine support in Sweden.
On October 8, 2026, Saab AB and GKN Aerospace signed a long-term agreement to expand their cooperation on the propulsion system for the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighter aircraft, localizing critical engine support within Sweden.
Announced in a Saab press release, the partnership establishes GKN Aerospace as the preferred provider of engine services for the Gripen E/F platform. The agreement directly responds to a recent Swedish Government directive aimed at strengthening domestic industrial capacity and national defense capabilities, while also bolstering Saab’s international export campaigns.
The agreement tasks both companies with jointly creating the conditions to enhance Sweden’s national capability regarding the Gripen E/F engine. Moving forward, GKN Aerospace will progressively assume a greater role in engine-related matters for the program, providing expanded expertise, capacity, and technical support.
Johan Segertoft, Head of the Gripen Business Unit at Saab, stated that the agreement lays the foundation for establishing GKN Aerospace as the company’s partner in engine-related matters. Segertoft noted that the Gripen program is built on strong industrial partnerships.
“For Saab, being able to contribute to strengthening Sweden’s fighter aircraft capability and domestic industrial capacity is of utmost importance,” Segertoft said. Sara Eklöf, Senior Vice President of Governmental Solutions for Defence and Space at GKN Aerospace, highlighted the technical complexity of the platform. Eklöf stated that the agreement expands the supplier’s role in supporting the long-term development of the propulsion system for what she described as one of the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft systems.
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is a light single-engine multirole fighter. The older Gripen C/D variants are powered by the RM12 engine, for which GKN Aerospace serves as the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and holds the military type certificate.
The newer Gripen E/F variants utilize the RM16 engine. The RM16 is a derivative of the General Electric F414 aero-engine, the same powerplant used in the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
In 2020, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) selected GKN Aerospace to provide product support, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the RM16 engine. This initial selection was designed to utilize synergies between the existing RM12 infrastructure and the new RM16 platforms. The October 8 agreement builds upon this foundation, formalizing GKN Aerospace’s expanded role in the lifecycle of the newer engine variant.
While the agreement focuses heavily on domestic industrial capacity, Saab emphasized that deepening the collaboration with GKN Aerospace strengthens the platform’s competitive offering in the global market. Saab, which employs approximately 29,000 people, is actively pursuing international export campaigns for the Gripen E/F. The engine support agreement follows a major milestone for the aircraft’s international production footprint. On October 6, 2026, the first Saab JAS 39 Gripen E manufactured outside of Sweden completed its maiden flight. The aircraft departed from Embraer‘s Gavião Peixoto aerodrome in São Paulo State, Brazil.
This flight marked a key step in Saab’s technology transfer program with Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). The aircraft is the first of 15 scheduled to be produced in Brazil under the current technology transfer program.
We view this agreement as a necessary step for Sweden to insulate its defense supply chain against geopolitical volatility. By localizing RM16 engine support with GKN Aerospace, Saab and the Swedish Government are reducing reliance on external maintenance networks for a critical national defense asset. Guaranteeing robust, localized lifecycle support for the propulsion system also provides Saab with a stronger value proposition when pitching the Gripen E/F to prospective export customers who demand sovereign maintenance capabilities.
Expanding domestic engine capabilities
The RM16 powerplant and GKN’s maintenance history
Export campaigns and international production
AirPro News analysis
Photo Credit: Saab
Defense & Military
First Brazil-Built Saab Gripen E Completes Maiden Flight
Embraer’s Gavião Peixoto facility flew the first Gripen E assembled outside Sweden on October 6, 2026.
The first Saab Gripen E fighter aircraft assembled outside of Sweden completed its maiden flight on October 6, 2026, at Embraer’s industrial complex in Gavião Peixoto, Brazil.
The successful flight validates a decade-long technology transfer program between Saab AB and Embraer S.A., establishing the only active supersonic fighter production line in South America. Embraer announced the milestone in a press release on October 7, 2026, marking a critical step toward delivering the locally produced aircraft to the Brazilian Air Force (FAB).
The maiden flight took place at 10:21 local time, piloted by Saab Chief Test Pilot Jakob Högberg. The event serves as the primary physical validation of the industrial partnership between the Swedish aerospace company and its Brazilian counterpart. Under the agreement, Embraer engineers and technicians received extensive training at Saab’s facilities in Linköping, Sweden, before returning to establish the parallel production line in São Paulo state.
Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, described the flight as a historic milestone for the country’s aerospace sector that confirms the success of the long-term strategy combining FAB’s vision, Saab’s technological expertise, and Embraer’s industrial capabilities.
“More than an achievement for the Gripen Program, this milestone demonstrates that the competencies developed over the years have become real and proven industrial capabilities in Brazil, strengthening our Defense Industrial Base and our ability to participate in highly complex global defense programs.” Marcus Wandt, Head of Saab’s Business Area Aeronautics, noted that the maiden flight proves the Brazilian production line has reached a new level of maturity, establishing a solid foundation for the fighter’s future development in the region.
The Brazilian Gripen Program, known as FX-2, originated with a 2014 contract in which the Brazilian government ordered 36 aircraft. The order comprises 28 single-seat Gripen E models and eight two-seat Gripen F models. The Brazilian Air Forces designates the aircraft as the F-39E and F-39F.
While the initial aircraft were manufactured entirely in Sweden, the contract mandated a comprehensive technology transfer to build long-term national competencies in Brazil. Embraer inaugurated the Gripen E final assembly line at Gavião Peixoto on May 9, 2023. The facility officially unveiled the first locally assembled airframe on March 25, 2026. Of the 36 aircraft in the initial order, 15 are planned for production at the Brazilian facility.
The Brazilian Air Force already operates the type. The Gripen E entered operational service with the First Air Defense Group (1st GDA) at Anápolis Air Base on December 19, 2022. Prior to this new locally built delivery, the 1st GDA operated 10 Gripen E fighters manufactured in Sweden. Following the completion of its flight-test campaign, this newly flown aircraft will be transferred to Goiás State to join the active fleet.
The maiden flight in Brazil follows closely behind another major program milestone. On August 28, 2026, the two-seat Gripen F variant completed its own maiden flight in Linköping. Brazil serves as the launch customer for the F model, which was developed jointly by Saab and Embraer engineers. The industrial footprint at Gavião Peixoto may expand beyond the initial 15 airframes. In July 2026, Embraer and Saab signed a Heads of Agreement to deepen their cooperation. The agreement contemplates the potential production of 20 additional Gripen aircraft in Latin America, allowing the Swedish manufacturer to offer regional assembly and technology transfer as part of future export packages.
We assess that the successful local production of the Gripen E fundamentally shifts Embraer’s position in the global defense market. By proving its ability to assemble a modern supersonic fighter, the Brazilian manufacturer not only secures its domestic defense industrial base but also creates a viable second export hub for Saab. This dual-production strategy could prove critical if Saab secures further orders in Latin America, allowing the Swedish manufacturer to offer regional assembly and technology transfer as part of future export packages.
For Embraer, the Gripen production line complements its success with the C-390 Millennium transport aircraft. Operating a live fighter production line elevates the company’s technical credentials when bidding for complex international defense contracts, proving that its engineering workforce can absorb and execute highly classified, third-party intellectual property at scale.
Validating the technology transfer program
Building South America’s supersonic production base
Expanding the Saab and Embraer partnership
AirPro News analysis
Photo Credit: Embraer
Defense & Military
BAE Systems Wins F-35 EW Suite Contract for Lots 20-22
BAE Systems will manufacture the AN/ASQ-239 electronic warfare suite for F-35 Lots 20-22, covering new-build and retrofitted aircraft.
BAE Systems has secured a contract from Lockheed Martin to manufacture the AN/ASQ-239 electronic warfare suite for Lots 20 through 22 of the F-35 Lightning II program, sustaining production of the fighter’s critical electromagnetic defense capabilities.
The agreement, announced in an October 6, 2026 press release, ensures both new-build aircraft and retrofitted jets will receive the advanced systems required to detect, jam, and counter threats in contested airspace. Neither BAE Systems nor Lockheed Martin disclosed the financial value of the Lots 20-22 order.
The AN/ASQ-239 is the built-in electronic warfare (EW) suite for the F-35 Lightning II. The system provides 360-degree situational awareness, radar warning, targeting support, and self-protection capabilities. It is designed to detect and geolocate electronic emitters, allowing the aircraft to evade, engage, counter, or jam threats.
Amber Dolan, Vice President of F-35 Solutions at BAE Systems, stated that the company has continuously evolved its EW hardware and software to maintain a decisive battlespace advantage for operators.
“We’re laser-focused on scaling production and delivering software-based capabilities to meet the rapid pace of conflict,” Dolan said. Manufacturing for the Lots 20-22 contract will take place at BAE Systems facilities in Austin, Texas, and the New Hampshire cities of Manchester, Merrimack, and Nashua.
The F-35 program is currently undergoing a major modernization effort known as Block 4, which relies heavily on upgraded electronic warfare capabilities and new processors under the Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) initiative.
The EW upgrade has been described as the centerpiece of the Block 4 improvements, designed to outpace emerging threats and provide more powerful signal processing. On December 15, 2021, BAE Systems received a $493 million contract to upgrade the F-35’s EW system specifically for the Block 4 modernization program.
The F-35 serves as the primary fifth-generation fighter for the US Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, alongside numerous allied nations. The EW suite is critical for the aircraft’s survivability in contested environments against modern integrated air defense systems, enemy fighters, and missiles.
BAE Systems has supplied the EW suite for every F-35 built, delivering over 1,500 units to date. The British multinational defense, security, and aerospace company employs over 110,000 people globally and operates across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. Its US subsidiary, BAE Systems, Inc., is headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia.
We view the continuation of the AN/ASQ-239 production through Lots 20-22 as a critical stabilizing factor for the broader F-35 supply chain. While the financial terms of this specific lot order remain undisclosed, the electronic warfare suite represents the core of the aircraft’s survivability and lethality upgrades under the Block 4 framework. As global threat environments become increasingly contested by advanced integrated air defense systems, the ability of BAE Systems to scale production across its Texas and New Hampshire facilities will be a key metric in meeting the operational demands of the Air Forces and its international partners.
Sustaining the F-35’s electromagnetic defenses
The Block 4 modernization context
BAE Systems’ footprint in the program
AirPro News analysis
Photo Credit: BAE Systems
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