In an effort to modernize its fleet, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is in pursuit of 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), an endeavor that has attracted major global defense players. Sweden’s Saab AB has presented its JAS-39 Gripen E/F as a promising option, particularly with its commitment to localized production and technology transfer to India.
Saab’s Gripen is one of eight contenders, each aiming to secure a contract worth an estimated $20 billion, the most ambitious airpower acquisition for the IAF since the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) deal, which culminated in the selection of the French Dassault Rafale. With a focus on indigenization and aligning with India’s “Make in India” policy, Saab is positioning itself not only as an aircraft supplier but as a partner in India’s defense industry transformation.
To strengthen its bid, Saab has announced partnerships with Indian manufacturers to facilitate rapid indigenization if selected. This includes not just the assembly of the Gripen in India but also the potential setup of full-scale production facilities for the entire fighter system, including software, avionics, and weapon systems.
Saab’s indigenization strategy promises the involvement of a network of private sector partners to support local supply chains, mirroring the model employed by Indian defense initiatives in recent years. This pledge is in line with Saab’s proven commitment to transferring complete technology, which would allow India to independently upgrade and maintain the Gripen fleet in the future.
The transfer of technology extends beyond the aircraft’s hardware to its digital and operational systems. A substantial element of the Gripen’s software architecture, avionics, data fusion, and electronic warfare (EW) systems are sourced from Europe or developed within Sweden, ensuring high operational independence. However, the platform’s core components, including the GE F414 engine, originate from U.S.-based suppliers, which some experts believe could pose challenges under certain geopolitical scenarios.
The Gripen E/F, the latest variant in Saab’s multirole fighter family, has entered service in the Swedish and Brazilian Air Forces and is tailored for superior maneuverability, advanced avionics, and high-tech EW capabilities. The JAS-39E (single-seat) and JAS-39F (two-seat) variants offer significant upgrades over their predecessors.
- Enhanced fuselage and a powerful engine that allows it to carry more payload.
- Cutting-edge radar and sensors for long-range target detection and precision tracking.
- AI-powered systems and data fusion capabilities that enable faster operational decision-making.
- Electronic warfare options, with the Gripen EA variant offering extensive electronic attack capabilities.
These enhancements reflect Saab’s response to the growing need for network-enabled operations and advanced warfare requirements. The Gripen has a delta wing and canard configuration, enhancing its maneuverability, while its relaxed stability design and fly-by-wire controls offer pilots intuitive handling and high combat versatility.
The MRFA program’s Request for Information (RFI), issued in 2018, attracted responses from eight other aircraft manufacturers, each bringing a unique set of strengths and technological offerings. Saab’s Gripen will compete against notable names like the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, Lockheed Martin F-21 (an India-specific F-16 variant), Dassault’s Rafale, and Russia’s MiG-35 and Su-35.
Each contender has a unique proposition, but Saab’s promise to manufacture the Gripen locally and transfer technology to Indian entities is a significant differentiator:
- Dassault Rafale: Already in service with the IAF, the Rafale is seen as a reliable choice, with India-specific customizations and proven battlefield performance. Its combat readiness and interoperability with IAF infrastructure add to its attractiveness.
- Lockheed Martin F-21: The F-21 is an evolution of the F-16 designed for India, promising long-term economic and technical partnerships with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). Given the F-16’s widespread use, a decision in its favor could position India as a regional F-16 supply hub.
- Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet: With proven carrier-based capabilities, Boeing’s F/A-18 was initially offered to both the Indian Air Force and Navy, though the latter has recently leaned toward the Rafale-M. Boeing has set up local ventures, including the Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) facility in Hyderabad.
- Eurofighter Typhoon: A collaborative project among Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, the Typhoon is known for its agility and has seen upgrades like MBDA Meteor and AESA radar integration. The Eurofighter was shortlisted alongside Rafale during the MMRCA competition, though India would need a leading partner to ensure smooth operations.
The IAF’s procurement program aligns with the government’s “Make in India” mandate, which encourages domestic manufacturing of defense equipment. Saab has responded by proposing an advanced supply chain involving Indian companies and facilitating a complete transfer of technology. This plan includes manufacturing the Gripen’s components domestically, further supporting India’s defense self-reliance.
India’s demand for an indigenous fleet stems from both strategic and operational considerations. The Ukraine-Russia conflict highlighted vulnerabilities for countries reliant on single-source suppliers, especially in scenarios involving diplomatic tensions or international sanctions. A diversified defense portfolio reduces India’s dependency on any single supplier, with Saab’s offer of a full technology transfer positioning the Gripen as a potential asset in bolstering India’s defense autonomy.
One critical aspect of Saab’s offer is the presence of U.S.-sourced components, particularly the GE F414 engine. Some in India’s defense community express concerns that U.S. export restrictions could affect the Gripen’s supply chain continuity or future upgrade paths. Saab has mitigated these concerns by emphasizing that the aircraft’s mission systems, radar, EW, and most other avionics are of Swedish or European origin. Sweden has also proposed to integrate Indian-developed weapons and systems on the Gripen platform, potentially enhancing the aircraft’s appeal.
The Gripen is already operational in several countries, including Brazil, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Thailand, and South Africa, with the Swedish Air Force as its primary operator. The Gripen’s modular design enables countries to access its source code, allowing customizations according to specific national requirements. This flexibility is critical for India, which operates a complex fleet including the Mirage 2000, Su-30, LCA, and Rafale.
The introduction of the Gripen, if it aligns with the IAF’s needs, could streamline operations and reduce dependence on Russian-origin aircraft. This transition is essential, given that around 65% of the IAF’s current fleet originates from Russia, and recent conflicts have underscored the risks of such dependency.
The Indian government’s formal announcement to proceed with the MRFA acquisition was made in 2018, yet, as of 2024, the Request for Proposal (RFP) has not been issued. This delay is attributed to bureaucratic processes and ongoing strategic deliberations within the Ministry of Defense. However, recent statements from the Modi administration indicate strong support for the IAF’s efforts to replenish its fighter squadron strength.
Saab’s Gripen, therefore, stands as a strong contender in the MRFA race. Its emphasis on indigenization and transfer of technology, combined with its advanced multirole capabilities, aligns with India’s aspirations for defense self-reliance. Furthermore, the Gripen’s ability to incorporate Indian-developed systems and weapons, coupled with Saab’s pledge for technology transfer, enhances its attractiveness.
