SAAB: SAAB keen to push Gripen in India, replica for Aero Show

Upbeat about opportunities in India’s defence industry SAAB, the Swedish defence technology major, stated its commitment to sharing technologies and capabilities with the Indian industry to establish strong local operations. Speaking on the sidelines of unveiling the Full Scale Replica (FSR) of its single-engine Gripen E fighter aircraft ahead of the Aero Show in Bengaluru on Tuesday, Kent Åke Molin, Head of the Gripen for India Programme, emphasized that SAAB aims not just to produce aircraft for India but also to build long-term capabilities.

The defence giant entered the race in 2018 by responding to the Request for Information (RFI) issued by the Indian government, making Gripen one of the eight contenders for the Indian Air Force’s anticipated 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA). If the contract is awarded, Molin told ET, “We are looking at extremely heavy investments in India, not only for production but also for future reinvestments. We will be establishing fully Indian operations in India, by Indians, and also for export.”

Highlighting what makes SAAB a strong contender, the India Programme head added that their strategy focuses on delivering a cost-efficient platform. “Not only for acquiring and operating but also for future upgrades. We’ve designed our products in a way that makes continuous upgrades sustainable.”

According to the company, the Gripen E features the powerful GE F414G engine, 10 hard points for payload, and advanced systems like the Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, InfraRed Search and Track (IRST), and electronic warfare capabilities. “Its AI-enabled Wide Area Display (WAD) simplifies decision-making, helping pilots manage weapons and coordinate effectively during complex missions. The E-series redefines air power for the 21st century,” SAAB said.

Molin added that they are awaiting the next steps from the Indian government. “We are fully prepared to offer a highly competitive response that meets the government’s requirements, needs, and aspirations and deliver the first Gripen in about three years.”

Meanwhile, SAAB is the only company to have secured approval from the Indian government for 100% ownership of an India-based operation. This includes manufacturing the shoulder-launched Carl Gustaf M4 in the country, fully aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Gripen-E FSR will be on display as part of the Bangalore Security Dialogue, co-hosted by the Takshashila Institution and Dynamatic Technologies during the Aero India show days being held between February 10 and 14.