Saab is actively positioning its Gripen fighter jet as the ideal successor to the Portuguese Air Force’s aging F-16 fleet. The Swedish aerospace company is emphasizing a combination of lower operational costs and high technological flexibility to attract Lisbon’s interest before a formal competition is launched.
Operational Efficiency and Cost Advantages
According to Daniel Boestad, vice president of Saab’s Gripen unit, the aircraft is significantly more economical than its competitors. Boestad claims the Gripen costs one-third of what rivals cost over its entire life cycle.
Beyond financial savings, Saab highlights a superior operational availability rate of 90%, compared to 50% to 60% for competing aircraft. The company argues that this higher availability could allow Portugal to maintain its combat capabilities with a smaller total number of aircraft.
Industrial Cooperation and Local Production
Saab is proposing a partnership model described by Gripen unit president Johan Segertoft as being “made with Sweden” rather than just “made in Sweden.” This approach would integrate Portuguese industry into the aircraft’s production chain.
The company has identified significant potential for cooperation with local firms, specifically mentioning OGMA and Critical Software. Potential collaboration could include the assembly of components and the aero-structure, such as the fuselage.
As a precedent, Saab points to its agreement with Brazil, which purchased 36 fighters, with 15 of those being produced internally at Embraer and Saab factories. Other Portuguese partners and suppliers praised by the company include Kristaltek, Thyssenkrupp, and Vangest.
Strategic Design and Combat Experience
The Gripen’s design is rooted in Sweden’s geography and its proximity to a historically hostile Russia. Engineers developed the jet to survive attacks on primary airbases by enabling deployment from alternative locations with simple maintenance requirements.
While some critics point to less combat experience than its rivals, former Swedish Air Force pilot Jussi Halmetoja notes the fleet’s integration into Allied operations in Libya in 2011 and recent offensive operations in Southeast Asia.
the aircraft may soon gain significant combat data in Ukraine. International agreements could see up to 150 Gripens provided to Kyiv to counter Russian Sukhoi fighters and support frontline offensives.
Expanding the Defense Portfolio
Saab’s ambitions in Portugal extend beyond the air force. The company has expressed interest in selling the RBS15 missile system to the Portuguese Navy for integration into Vasco da Gama class frigates.
To support growing global demand, Saab is currently expanding its manufacturing facilities with plans to produce up to 30 aircraft per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Gripen’s cost compare to other fighter jets?
Saab claims that the Gripen costs one-third of its competition over the entire life cycle of the aircraft.
Could the Gripen be manufactured within Portugal?
While Saab has not confirmed final assembly, they have stated there is significant potential for Portuguese companies like OGMA and Critical Software to produce components and the aero-structure, including the fuselage.
What is the “program in the morning, fly in the afternoon” mantra?
This refers to the Gripen’s ease of technological updates, with the company revealing that they can introduce system updates on a weekly basis.
Do you believe industrial production offsets are more important than “generation” labels when selecting a national defense fleet?
