Swedish royal visit signals Canada’s growing interest in Saab defence partnership

Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia will lead a major economic and political delegation to Canada from November 18 to 20, underscoring Canada’s increasing interest in Swedish military technology — particularly Saab’s fighter jets and surveillance aircraft. The visit comes amid rising speculation of a deal between the Canadian government and Saab. Just weeks before, Saab’s CEO Micael Johansson met with Michael Sabia, clerk of the Privy Council, signaling that Ottawa is exploring European defence partnerships and expanded domestic production.

Accompanying the royal couple are Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch, Defence Minister Pål Jonson, and more than 60 business leaders, including representatives of the powerful Wallenberg family — key investors in both Ericsson and Saab. The group will visit Ottawa and Montreal, with a stop at Bombardier’s facilities to discuss joint production opportunities for Saab’s Gripen fighter jets.
The state visit follows Canada’s announcement of $82 billion in new defence spending and its ongoing review of the F-35 procurement program, originally signed with U.S. manufacturer Lockheed Martin. Political tensions with Washington under President Donald Trump have prompted Ottawa to explore alternatives, including a mixed fleet of F-35s and Gripens.

Analysts note that the Gripen offers a cheaper operational cost than the F-35, though maintaining two aircraft fleets would create logistical challenges. Saab executives, meanwhile, emphasize Canada’s skilled workforce and the potential for long-term industrial collaboration. Canadian ministers have already visited Saab’s production facilities in Sweden, and discussions between Saab, Bombardier, and the federal government are intensifying. Observers say the visit by King Carl XVI Gustaf could cement Sweden as a key European defence partner for Canada, as Ottawa seeks to reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers — which currently account for about three-quarters of Canadian military purchases.

Experts such as Philippe Lagassé of Carleton University argue that Sweden offers a model of military and industrial autonomy. With Saab’s GlobalEye aircraft already integrating Bombardier-built jets, the collaboration could mark a major step in diversifying Canada’s defence procurement and strengthening transatlantic ties.