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Sweden contracts Saab for Gripen C/D enhancements

Gripen C/D
Photo: Saab

The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has awarded Saab a contract for the upgrade of JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter aircraft to ensure their continued operation.

Saab will perform the capability enhancements to preserve the operational relevance of the Gripens under a contract worth SEK 500 million (USD 52.5M).

The purpose of the order is to start implementation of the upgrade to fulfil the Swedish Armed Forces’ need to maintain the continued high capability and availability of Gripen C/D up to 2035.

Work under this program will also include harmonization with the JAS 39 E Gripen to enable collaboration between the two versions of the Gripen.

Gripen C/D will be used for many years to come in Sweden and in other countries that have purchased Gripen. The development is also done to further ensure a cost-effective solution regarding construction, design and procurement, Saab said.

Sweden’s defense procurement agency said the basis for the order was an extensive feasibility study carried out in 2021 in collaboration between FMV, the Swedish Armed Forces and industry.

What FMV is ordering now is the initial work required to ensure the schedule. Supplementary orders will be placed on an ongoing basis during 2022, according to the agency.

“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,” says Jonas Hjelm, head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area.