Colombia decides to buy Swedish fighter jets amid strained relations with Israel

In a recent development, Colombia confirmed its intention to procure up to 24 fighter jets from the Swedish defense firm Saab, a decision influenced by deteriorating diplomatic ties with Israel. The announcement aligns with Colombia's observed challenges in maintaining its aging fleet of Israeli-made Kfir aircraft, which have been in use since the late 1980s. The procurement follows a significant shift in Colombian policy, where President Gustavo Petro’s administration has undertaken a detailed review of offers from multiple nations, including France and the United States, to enhance its military capabilities. This move comes shortly after Colombia severed diplomatic relations with Israel amid escalating tensions over the Israel-Hamas conflict. Colombian authorities, including Aerospace Force chief commander Carlos Fernando Silva, have indicated that negotiations with Saab are ongoing, and the final count of jets procured may vary from the initially stated number of 24. As of now, Colombia continues to operate the Kfir jets while awaiting the arrival of new aircraft. The Swedish ambassador to Colombia, Helena Storm, affirmed that this contract signifies the strengthening of bilateral relations between Colombia and Sweden. Historically, Kfir jets have played a pivotal role in Colombia's military operations against guerrilla groups, including those represented by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, which facilitated peace negotiations leading to disarmament in 2016. The replacement of the Kfir aircraft has been a cited goal of the last three Colombian administrations, highlighting a long-standing planning process towards modernization of the country's air force amid changing geopolitical landscapes.