Gripen Upgraded to 2040

According to the plans of the Swedish Ministry of Defense, in the years 2020-2030 the service will remain 60-80 modernized Gripen fighter jets, which may constitute the backbone of the Air Force until 2040.


Swedish Ministry of Defence has revealed key elements of the analysis, the government passed yesterday, and on the Gripen fighter. It follows that the future needs of the Air Force fills 60-80 aircraft of this type.

Currently, the Swedes use operationally about 100 Saab JAS 39A / B and C / D. According to the minister of defense, Sverker Göransona in 2020 shall commence a 10-year process of profound modernization of some of them. new Gripen will be derived from the currently offered for export fighter JAS 39E / F. This means, among others installing more powerful engines, radar station, but also increase the airframe, to obtain more space for new fuel tanks.

The Minister pointed out, however, that because of the cost - estimated by the media for about $ 4.5 billion - the process should be partially paid for by at least one external partner, the importer of Swedish fighters.

With the proposed changes, Sweden has maintained the ability to independently conduct effective air operations at least until 2040.