UPDATES FROM THE CAMPAIGN DIRECTOR
GRIPEN FULFILS THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SWISS AIR FORCE
It was a pleasure for Saab to take part in the impressive Breitling Sion Air Show in mid-September, and to show that the Gripen fighter feels very much at home in the Swiss Alps. There was great interest in our fighter jet from spectators, and media reports made it clear that Gripen is an extremely capable and cost-effective candidate that could take the Swiss Air Force into a successful future.
Five countries have already taken the step and decided to buy Gripen – one of the most modern fighter aircraft in the world. In July this year the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) officially declared its new air defence system consisting of the Gripen fighter and Saab 340 Erieye AEW operational. The air defence system also included a ground-based Command and Control system. In addition to Thailand, the latest Gripen fighters are currently also in use in Sweden, the Czech Republic, Hungary and South Africa. The world renowned Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) in the UK is using the Gripen as its highly developed platform for test pilots from all over the world. This year also saw Gripen deployed in the NATO-led Operation Unified Protector for the last five months with great success, which has been publicly recognized by the NATO commander in Libya.
Gripen was displayed at Breitling Sion Air Show. Photo: Saab AB.
Switzerland and Sweden stand out as truly independent and non-aligned nations. By selecting Gripen, Switzerland and Sweden would form a long-lasting strategic partnership that guarantees national autonomy and continued independence.
Gripen is the most modern fighter system in operational service today and it fulfils the Swiss requirements. The Gripen offers significant advantages over its rivals in terms of acquisition and maintenance costs, environmental impact and suitability.
Gripen over Switzerland. Photo: Swiss Airforce.
Switzerland and Sweden are innovation-driven countries and have among the highest capacities for sustaining innovation. Thanks to the many similarities in the strategic and industrial approach, Swedish industry is an attractive co-operation partner for Swiss business. Saab has an excellent track record of delivering on our commitments. Within the industrial co-operation programme, Saab guarantees Swiss industry business corresponding to 100 percent of the contract value. All regions and all industry domains will benefit from the programme and we will commit to working very closely with the local defence and aerospace industry. The aim of the programme is to implement long-term projects and create sustainable commercial relations.
On selection of Gripen, Switzerland will acquire a fighter aircraft at the cutting edge of technology, that fulfils the requirements of the Swiss Air Force, and that offers by far the best value in terms of both initial acquisition and through-life support.
Thank you for your support and your interest!
Anders Carp
Director of Gripen for Switzerland