Insta
Saab Sweetens The Deal: 96 Gripens To Be Indigenously Manufactured If It Bags IAF’s Mega Fighter Jet Contract
Swarajya Staff
Jan 23, 2019, 05:48 PM | Updated 05:48 PM IST
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
In an attempt to strengthen its chances of clinching the $20 billion Indian Air Force (IAF) order for 114 combat aircraft, Swedish defence giant Saab has proposed to carry out the manufacture of 96 of its Gripen fighters in India, reports Business Standard.
The order calls for commitment from sellers to provide sensitive technologies and to conduct the majority of the manufacturing in India itself.
The IAF had originally sent out a request for information (RFI) in April for the purchase of 114 fighters, most of which were to be manufactured in India through an Indian private entity that would partner with the foreign manufacturer under a technology transfer pact. The IAF is now considering the various responses from vendors, including that of Saab.
“Except the first 18 aircraft, we intend to manufacture everything in India. Saab will look to build an ecosystem of defence manufacturing inside the country,” Chairman and Managing Director of Saab India Ola Rignellsaid stated in an interview.
Saab has partnered with Adani Defence for the prospect of manufacturing the Gripen in India. The company, however, faces stiff competition from competitors like Dassault, Boeing and Lockheed, who have also tied with local partners.
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.