# Colombia Begins Gripen Jet Payments

Colombia has begun payments under its €3.1 billion contract with Saab for 17 Gripen fighter jets, with the Colombian Air Force reporting an initial advance equal to 0.6% of the contract value. The payment comes as President Abelardo de la Espriella’s government faces fiscal pressures and may make cancellation or renegotiation more difficult, creating potential continuity and change risks for Saab and other firms supporting the program.

- The procurement is an active, high-value defense program; suppliers and subcontractors should assess their exposure to the existing delivery and support arrangements.
- The initial payment may affect the government’s options if it seeks to revise or cancel the purchase. Contractors with related work should account for possible changes in program scope or schedule when planning.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** October 02, 2026

### Government Entities
- Government of Colombia
- Colombian Air Force

### Vendors
- Saab (Awardee)

### Sources
- [The government made an advance payment equivalent to 0.6% of the value of the contract to buy 17 Gripen fighter jets from the Swedish defense manufacturer, the air force said last month in response to a formal information request https://t.co/wAVwgF77rA](https://x.com/business/status/2106144738629792024) - twitter-defense