The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) says that precise numbers and equipment will be the subject of negotiations with industry over the next six months. According to Saab, the new batch will be a mixture of single-seat and two-seat JAS39E/F aircraft, and a new powerplant “-may be an issue” in the forthcoming talks.
An upgraded version of the Gripen’s 80kN (18,000lb)-thrust General Electric/Volvo Aero RM12 turbofan engine have all been discussed.
The aircraft from the several batches of 36 JAS39E/F will be handed over to Brazilian Air Force, followed by Swedish Air Force orders of 60 Gripen E/F will be produced in Sweden.
The first Gripen E for Sweden has been delivered this year to the test and evaluation force made up of personnel from Saab and the Swedish Air Force.
The first of the 36 aircraft ordered by Brazil (28 single-seater E versions and 8 twin-seater F versions) for $4.16 billion will be delivered to the Brazilian Air Force in 2021, but the first pilots will come to Sweden next January to start training.
Maintenance Contract
Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) on behalf of the Swedish Armed Forces to provide support and maintenance services for Gripen from 1 July 2020 to 31 March 2021.
The total order value amounts to MSEK 687.
The order is a nine month extension of a contract signed with FMV late May 2017, regarding performance-based support and maintenance of Gripen and cover the period 1 July 2020 to 31 March 2021. The order includes support and maintenance services essential to aviation operations with Gripen. The order covers, for example, design and support, component maintenance, the provision of logistics, technical system support, publications, spare parts, repairs, ground support equipment and pilot equipment.
“With this order Saab will continue to provide support for an effective operation and availability of Gripen,” says Ellen Molin, head of Saab business area Support & Services.
Work will be carried out at Saab’s facilities in Linköping, Arboga, Järfälla, Gothenburg and Östersund.
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