• First upgraded RM12 engine delivered as part of the RM12EP (Enhanced Performance) programme
  • Upgrades increase engine thrust, endurance and operating efficiency for the JAS 39 Gripen C/D
  • The RM12EP programme builds on GKN Aerospace’s long-standing role as type certificate holder and strategic partner to the Swedish Air Force
  • The programme is valued at approximately £32 million (SEK 400 million)

Trollhättan, Sweden, 24 March 2026 – GKN Aerospace has successfully delivered the first upgraded RM12 engine to its customer, the Swedish Armed Forces, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing RM12EP (Enhanced Performance) programme. The delivery follows an earlier order from the Swedish Armed Forces valued at approximately £32 million (SEK 400 million) for performance upgrades across the Gripen C/D engine fleet.

The RM12EP upgrade includes the installation of improved turbine hardware and updated engine control software designed to increase engine thrust, extend operating time and reduce life‑cycle costs. All work is carried out at GKN Aerospace’s facility in Trollhättan, Sweden, where the company is responsible for the development, manufacturing, system support and maintenance of both the RM12 engine powering the Gripen C/D and the RM16 powering the new Gripen E/F.

The first delivery is the result of strong cross-functional collaboration within GKN Aerospace, across engineering, production, quality, procurement and logistics, together with key partners GE and Saab. Additional upgraded engines will be delivered continuously to the customer as planned.

Stefan Oscarsson, Vice President Governmental Solutions at GKN Aerospace, said:
“This first upgraded engine delivery represents an important step forward in enhancing the performance and endurance of the Gripen system. As type certificate holder for the Gripen C/D engine and with a partnership with the Swedish Air Force that spans nearly a century, we are proud to continue supporting Sweden’s operational capability and future readiness.”

The RM12EP programme, launched in 2019 and led by GKN Aerospace, forms part of long-term efforts to ensure the Gripen C/D remains a highly capable and cost‑efficient fighter aircraft. The upgraded engine will form the foundation for continued operation and maintenance support, for which GKN Aerospace remains responsible.

GKN Aerospace is a global multi-technology leader in the aerospace and defence industry, specialising in the development and delivery of cutting-edge aerostructures and engine systems. Our unrivalled products, systems and services are integral to 90% of today’s major aircraft. These range from helicopters, business jets, passenger planes and advanced air mobility vehicles, to uncrewed military platforms and state-of-the-art fighter aircraft.

Our commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology is evident in the application of lightweight composites, additive fabrication, electrical wiring interconnection systems, and ground-breaking engine systems, reducing both weight and cost in today’s aircraft and engines. GKN Aerospace is at the forefront of sustainable technology, developing breakthrough solutions to achieve more sustainable flight. Our global technology centres collaborate with industry partners around the world to accelerate the development of pioneering technologies, including hydrogen-powered propulsion and all-electric flight.

Operating in 12 countries, GKN Aerospace employs a workforce of 16,000 employees across more than 30 locations. GKN Aerospace has global sales of £3.6bn and is listed under its parent company name Melrose Industries PLC (LSE:MRO).