WORLD
SWEDISH FIGHTER OUT OF SWISS COMPETITION?
SUPPORTED BY SWEDEN, Saab has submitted its proposal for Finland’s HX fighter competition to the Finnish defense procurement agency, the Logistics Command of the Finnish Defence Forces. The Saab proposal comprises 64 Gripen aircraft — 52 single-seat Gripen E and 12 two-seat Gripen F variants — and is the formal response to the customer’s request for quotation (RFQ) issued in April 2018. Saab’s Gripen offer also includes two GlobalEye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft.
According to the manufacturer, Saab is offering a ‘substantial’ weapon and sensor package as well as the necessary equipment and associated services needed for operating the system, including an industrial co-operation program with the aim to build extensive national capabilities in Finland. It also includes transfer of maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities to local industry, production of aircraft and an establishment of a Gripen sustainment and development center in Finland.
An HX procurement decision is expected in 2021. The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon and Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II are also in the running.
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