Bengaluru: At the Aero Space Park in Devanahalli, Swedish defence and aerospace company Saab unveiled a full-scale replica of its Gripen E fighter jet as a preview to Aero India 2025. The full-scale replica was on display as part of the Bangalore Security Dialogue, co-hosted by Takshashila Institution and Dynamatic Technologies.
During Aero India 2025, Saab will showcase a range of defence and security systems including the Gripen E FSR. Aero India 2025 is scheduled to take place in Bengaluru from February 10 to 14.
Saab responding to a 2018 Request for Information (RFI) for 114 MRFA for the Indian Air Force has outlined a blueprint to fully indigenise Gripen E production in India under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) programme. The company plans to transfer all necessary technologies to support local manufacturing of the Gripen E.
Gripen E, made for forward-thinking air forces, incorporates cutting-edge technologies in the latest systems, sensors, weapons and pods to ensure combat advantage, delivering air superiority in highly contested environments. With its advanced features such as enhanced sensing capabilities, AI-driven data processing, and state-of-the-art networking, the Gripen E’s modular software allows execution of updates within two to three days — a process that typically takes months. Additionally, the aircraft can carry a diverse range of weapons, including Indian-made munitions, beyond those manufactured by Saab.
Kent Åke Molin, Head of Gripen for India Programme stated, “Today we kick-start our participation at Aero India 2025. We are delighted to be able to provide a preview of the Gripen E Full Scale Replica against the backdrop of the Bangalore Security Dialogues, and we hope to engage in meaningful dialogues during the session.”
Gripen E has the ability to carry an impressive payload with its ten hard-points with its powerful GE F414G engine and great range. It also has a AESA radar, Infra-Red Search and Track System (IRST), highly advanced electronic warfare and communication systems. The E-series redefines air power for the 21st century by extending operational capabilities.
Featuring the Wide Area Display (WAD), Gripen E’s embedded AI capability and its future-oriented cockpit design facilitates the pilot’s decision-making process and provides crucial assistance in the midst of a complex mission. The WAD presents the information in a user-friendly way, which supports the pilot’s ability to select, launch and guide weapons in perfect coordination with other members of a tactical air unit.
Emphasising Saab’s commitment to expanding its operations in the Global South, Kent Åke Molin said, “We have already delivered aircraft to Brazil and South Africa and are keen to support India’s indigenisation and self-reliance goals. Gripen E has excelled in all our tests, and we are confident in its capabilities.”
As the only global company to have secured approval from the Indian government for 100% ownership of an India-based operation, Saab is manufacturing shoulder launched Carl Gustaf M4 in India to fully meet the requirements of “Make in India”.
Saab’s push aligns with India’s strategic focus on boosting indigenous defence production and self-reliance in military procurement.
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