The Swedish Armed Forces signed an agreement with Saab for the modernization of the Gripen C/D warplanes, which will extend their service life until the mid-2030s. This was announced on the website of the Swedish Defense Logistics Agency (FMV). The value of the deal is approximately $300 million (3.5 billion Swedish kronor). The aircraft modernization order should be completed in the period 2023-2029.

The contract also includes the possibility of placing additional orders in the coming years to further develop the capabilities of the Swedish Air Force. At the moment, the essence of the modernization has not been reported, but during the work it is planned to improve the flight characteristics and sensor systems for both self-defense, target measurement and reconnaissance. They also plan to improve the aircraft’s attack capabilities. In this way, they will “expand the parallel operation possibilities of the Gripen E and C/D while providing good preparation for a long time.”

“The upgrade provides the Armed Forces with a stronger combat aviation capability and allows the JAS 39C/D to be operational until the mid-2030s.“, FMV’s head of aerospace equipment department, says Ingela Mathiasson. Also, Saab has signed an agreement to support and maintain the Gripen fighter jets. The value of the contract is approximately $300 million and covers the period between 2023 and 2025.

“This contract is a big and important part of the system that allows us to operate the Gripen platform for many years, both in Sweden and with our export customers.“, says Henrik Eriksson, head of the core aircraft division of FMV’s combat aviation division.

It will be remembered that Saab signed an agreement for the maintenance of South African Gripen fighter jets in September. This contract became important for the company because for a while the maintenance of South African aircraft was entrusted to local companies. This caused concern for the manufacturer. Saab JAS 39 Gripen – A light, single-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft manufactured by the Swedish aerospace company Saab AB. The aircraft is in service with Sweden, Thailand, the Czech Republic, Hungary, South Africa and Brazil. Source