DND Reportedly Submitting Proposal to Procure Saab’s Gripen

03 Juni 2021

Saab has committed to deliver the first batch of Gripen C/D by 2024 if a contract could be signed and Notice to Proceed released within this year (photo : Saab)

The Department of National Defense (DND) is reportedly submitting a proposal to procure the Saab JAS-39C/D MS20 Gripen fighter aircraft for Philippine Air Force (PAF)’s Multi-Role Fighter Acquisition Project, MaxDefense Philippines said in an update June 2, citing sources from PAF.

MaxDefense said the DND is serious with the said project with National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana personally pushing for the project to progress.

“Up until early this year, the PAF was pushing for the acquisition of the F-16 Block 70 Viper in which 12 brand new units were offered by the US to the PAF.” MaxDefense said. However, it added that “because of financial reasons, the PAF was left to choose between moving their MRF acquisition to the next Horizon 3 phase, or select a cheaper alternative. Cheaper alternatives include acquiring a 2nd squadron of KAI FA-50, or going with the Saab’s Gripen.”

(Mintfo)