Sweden's SAAB once again offers Gripen-E fighter jets to Indian Air Force

In a strategic move, SAAB India has extended a fresh offer of its Gripen-E fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF), aligning with India's deliberations over the MRFA contract for new multi-role fighter jets. The offer, made through social media, highlights SAAB's continued interest in the Indian defense market. 

SAAB India's outreach comes amidst global endeavors to market the Gripen jets, where the aircraft faces stiff competition. SAAB has experienced limited success in recent global pitches. However, the company remains undeterred in promoting the Gripen-E, recognizing its potential relevance to India's defense needs. 

A compensatory move for IAF's depleting squadrons 

In 2018, India initiated the process by issuing Requests for Information (RFIs) for the procurement of 114 medium multi-role fighter aircraft. This acquisition aims to replenish the IAF's diminishing combat-ready squadrons, which have dwindled due to the phased retirement of older aircraft. Previously, SAAB India collaborated with the Adani Group in 2017, aiming to bolster its position in the Indian Air Force competition. However, this partnership officially concluded on January 19, 2023, prompting SAAB to recalibrate its strategy.

Saab will offer 114 state-of-the-art Gripen E fighters as a part of its response to the upcoming IAF RFP. With Gripen E, India will get next-generation combat air capability and world-class availability - ready to face any threat, any time, anywhere, from any dispersed location. pic.twitter.com/A1WQFSOok2

— Saab India (@SaabIndia) August 28, 2023

Despite the conclusion of its partnership with an Indian entity, SAAB has continued to advocate for the Gripen-E to the IAF. In October 2022, the company proposed a concept aligned with India's 'Make in India' policy, emphasizing indigenous production of advanced weaponry. SAAB's commitment encompassed innovation, design, development, assembly, support, and maintenance in India, involving numerous partners, vendors, and suppliers. 

Offering technological support and indigenous development 

SAAB's vision extended beyond supplying fighter jets; it aimed to create an independent industrial base capable of designing, developing, and maintaining Gripen aircraft. Additionally, the company proposed providing technological support for indigenous fighter programs like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) MK2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). At the Aero India Show in February, SAAB prominently exhibited the Gripen-E, offering both single and two-seater variants to the Indian Air Force. This introduction marked the first presentation of the two-seat variant to India. 

The Gripen-E, a single-seater 4.5-generation aircraft, competes as a top contender in the IAF's fighter program. It faces competition from other prominent aircraft, including the Lockheed Martin F-21, Boeing F/A-18, Dassault Aviation Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, and Russian MiG-35.

Operational excellence and unique features

Mats Palmberg, CMD of SAAB India, emphasized the Gripen E's operational prowess, networked warfare capabilities, enhanced sensor fusion, distinctive beyond visual range (BVR) features, and its ability to adapt to emerging threats. He underscored the ease of maintenance and the capability to perform all maintenance and upgrades locally, eliminating the need to transport aircraft to Sweden. 

SAAB's briefing emphasized the Gripen E's use of advanced networking technology, ensuring maximum operational availability with minimal logistical support. The aircraft benefits from its potent General Electric F-414 engine, enhancing its capabilities. While SAAB faces formidable competition in India's multi-role fighter jet procurement, it remains committed to advocating for the Gripen-E, aligning with India's strategic defense objectives.