Saab is showcasing a full-size mockup off the Gripen E, at the ongoing ADAS. The Swedish airframer is hoping to add the Philippines as the second customer for the type in the region. The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) opted for the Gripen E/F instead of Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70/72 this August, in what is an important win for Saab. The RTAF is presently the only operator of the Gripen C/D in the region, with type now in its 13th year of service.
In August, the Sweden Ambassador to Manila Annika Thunborg again made the offer of the Gripen E for the modernisation needs of the PAF. With continuing tensions with China, particularly over the South China Sea, the induction of a modern high-performance in the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is considered a vital necessity. The PAF requires new fighter jets to improve its capability to meet current and future threats and also deploy fighter aircraft with precision munitions in support of counterterrorism operations in the southern Philippines, increasing effectiveness and minimizing collateral damage.
The PAF is evaluating the Gripen and the F-16 Block 70/72. The U.S. State Department had approved a possible Foreign Military Sale of the F-16 Block 70/72 Aircraft (10 F-16Cs and 2 F-16Ds) to the Philippines in June 2021. The deal estimated to cost more than U.S. $2.43 billion, has proven difficult to finance amongst other pressing budgetary constraints for defence procurements in the Philippines.
The Gripen E is powered by a GE F414G engine and carry an impressive payload with its ten hard-points. It also has a new AESA-radar, InfraRed Search and Track System (IRST), highly advanced electronic warfare and communication systems. The Gripen E can conduct air-to-air, air-to-surface and reconnaissance missions. Air supremacy is achieved with the carriage of up to seven Meteor Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missiles and two Within Visual Range IRIS-T missiles. Weapons like these, combined with the ability to use offensive and defensive means simultaneously, enables Gripen E to detect, engage and suppress or destroy targets effectively.
The Gripen E was designed from the outset, for ease of maintenance that secures higher availability than its competitors. The aircraft can operate in extreme climates and from dispersed and unprepared road bases or airstrips. It takes less than 20 minutes with only a limited number of ground crew and equipment to refuel and rearm Gripen for an air-to-air mission, which ensures rapid re-engagement. With low maintenance requirements per flight hour, Gripen E also spends less time on the ground and more time in the air.
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