SAAB has announced its commitment to deliver the first Gripen-E/F fighter jet to India within 36 months following the signing of a contract for the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program. This announcement is part of SAAB’s broader strategy to establish a comprehensive manufacturing ecosystem in India, aligning with the Indian government’s Make in India initiative aimed at enhancing domestic defence production capabilities.
Saab’s commitment to building manufacturing facilities in India, combined with its advanced technology and local skills training, places it in a favourable position as India seeks to enhance its defence industrial base. Mats Palmberg, Vice President of SAAB and head of the Gripen India campaign, emphasizes that their proposal extends beyond merely transferring production lines. “We are offering to create a complete ecosystem that enhances India’s self-sufficiency in the production, maintenance, and upgrading of the Gripen system,” he stated.
SAAB plans to set up full-scale production facilities in India that will encompass not only the airframe but also critical systems and software. This approach aims to significantly increase local content in the aircraft, thereby fostering indigenization and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The company is committed to transferring key technologies to Indian partners, which includes integrating Indian-made systems and weapons into the Gripen platform. This transfer is expected to enhance operational capabilities and interoperability with existing Indian defence systems.
Once the contract is finalized, SAAB is prepared to deliver the first aircraft within three years. The company has emphasized its readiness and established partnerships with various Indian industry players to meet this timeline effectively.
The Gripen-E is recognized for its advanced capabilities, including an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and cutting-edge avionics. These features are designed to ensure high situational awareness and combat readiness in diverse operational environments.
The MRFA program involves the procurement of 114 multi-role fighter jets, which are crucial for modernizing the Indian Air Force’s fleet and addressing evolving regional security challenges. SAAB’s proposal positions it as a strong contender against other international competitors like Dassault’s Rafale and Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
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Through this initiative, SAAB aims not only to fulfil India’s immediate defence needs but also to contribute to long-term strategic goals by bolstering local manufacturing capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign imports.
How Will SAAB Ensure The Gripen Meets The IAF’s Operational Needs
SAAB is strategically positioning the Gripen-E/F fighter jets to meet the operational needs of the Indian Air Force (IAF) through a comprehensive approach that encompasses indigenization, technology transfer, and adaptability to diverse combat scenarios.
Focussing on indigenous production and ecosystem development, SAAB plans to establish full-scale production facilities in India, which will not only manufacture the airframe but also include critical systems and software. This initiative aligns with India’s Make in India policy, aiming to boost local defence manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign imports.
A significant focus for SAAB is ensuring that the Gripen can integrate seamlessly with Indian-made weapons and systems. This capability enhances the aircraft’s operational flexibility and makes it more attractive to the IAF, which seeks to modernize its fleet with compatible technologies.
The Gripen-E is equipped with cutting-edge avionics, including the Raven AESA radar, which provides superior situational awareness. This advanced sensor suite enables effective engagement in various combat scenarios, enhancing the IAF’s operational effectiveness.
Known for its low operational and maintenance costs, the Gripen is designed to conduct a wide range of missions economically. This cost efficiency is crucial for the IAF as it seeks to maximize its defence budget while upgrading its capabilities.
The Gripen’s design allows it to operate effectively in varied terrains, from deserts to high altitudes. This versatility is vital for India’s diverse geographical landscape and operational requirements.
SAAB emphasizes a commitment to regular upgrades of the Gripen platform, ensuring that it remains competitive against evolving threats. The integration of advanced technologies such as AI will enhance decision-making capabilities in complex combat situations.
SAAB has engaged with multiple Indian industry partners to develop a blueprint for indigenization. This collaboration aims to build a sustainable ecosystem for the Gripen in India, facilitating knowledge transfer and local capability enhancement.
Through these strategies, SAAB aims not only to fulfil immediate operational requirements of the IAF but also to contribute to India’s long-term defence self-reliance goals.
