Sweden has tapped Saab to modernize the country’s Gripen C/D and Gripen E fighters under a 540-million-kronor ($50 million) contract.
The operation and support of test aircraft and equipment such as rigs and simulators will be covered under the new agreement.
The deal is part of a program that covers the aircraft’s major upgrades by the aerospace firm, which includes engine and electronic warfare system updates.
Work will commence this year at Saab’s Linköping, Gothenburg, Järfälla, and Arboga facilities.
Saab’s Gripen Projects
One of Saab’s newest capabilities for the Gripen fleet is the LITENING 5 target designator pod, which is equipped with high-resolution infrared cameras and a synthetic aperture radar that can survey areas at a range of up to 62 miles (100 kilometers).
The pods cost around $4 million per unit.
Saab’s modernization efforts for the fighter aircraft are expected to extend their service life until the mid-2030s.
The Gripens are designed for attack, fighting, and reconnaissance missions with increased payload and updated warfare systems compared to other fourth-generation jet fighters.
Its operators include Brazil, the Czech Republic, and the UK.
