SAAB To Develop Next Generation Super Jas Aircraft

Swedish aircraft maker has announced its plans to develop a new version of the JAS Gripen aircraft. The announcement comes amidst reports that Switzerland is preparing to procure new aircraft. Last year, the Swiss government announces a preliminary decision to buy 22 JAS Gripen aircraft after mulling over offers from other manufacturers including Dassault. SAAB is currently competing in the Brazilian fighter aircraft competition with opponents Rafale and the F-18 aircrafts. A win in Brazil could seriously boost SAAB’s presence in South America. The company is also hoping to defect from the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter and convince Denmark and the Netherlands to pick the Gripen instead. Meanwhile, Sweden has decided to obtain 80 new jets from SAAB at an estimated cost of US$8 billion. The E/F model will be designed to carry more weapons, operate over a longer range and be equipped with a stronger engine than previous models. “We hope that several countries will buy Gripen. But until Switzerland or Croatia or other countries have done that Sweden will upgrade Gripen on its own,” said Staffan Danielsson, defence spokesperson Centre Party, part of the government coalition.