Buskhe, 55, said he was leaving because he wanted another operational challenge in his career.

"Saab has grown to a new level and is today a strong international defences and security company. We have achieved this through strategic partnerships, global presence and a continuous focus on investments in the product portfolio," Buskhe said.

Saab, which produces the Gripen fighter jet and which has seen its share price drop 4% this year, said it had initiated a recruitment process.

(Reporting By Johan Ahlander; Editing by Keith Weir)