Swedish airframer Saab has received an order to upgrade Swedish Air Force JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter jets.
The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has contracted Saab to ensure the continued operation of JAS 39 Gripen C/D and provide capability enhancements to preserve the operational relevance of the fighter aircraft. The order value is SEK 500 million (INR 400 crore).
“Gripen C/D is the backbone of the Swedish Armed Forces today and will continue to be for many years to come, so this is an important order where we will ensure the continued operation and operational relevance of Gripen C/D,” said Jonas Hjelm, Head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area.
Saab will undertake the upgrade to fulfil the Swedish Armed Forces’ need to maintain the continued high capability and availability of Gripen C/D up to 2035.
The development is also being done to ensure further a cost-effective solution regarding construction, design, and procurement of the Gripen C/D, which will be used for many years in Sweden and other countries that have purchased Gripen.
The JAS 39 Gripen C/D was also a contender for the Indian Air Force’s MMRCA competition, which was eventually won by the Dassault Rafale. Saab is offering a newer version of the Gripen, known as the Gripen E to meet an ongoing IAF requirement for 114 fighters.