Saab's Gripen in the Running for Dutch Fighter Order

Saab's Gripen in the Running for Dutch Fighter Order

(NSI News Source Info) STOCKHOLM - August 25, 2008: Swedish aeronautics manufacturer Saab said Aug. 25 its Gripen fighter was in the running for a Dutch order to replace its current 85 U.S. F-16s but did not disclose the value of the Swedish offer. The Saab offer includes training, simulators and support in addition to 85 Gripen Next Generation fighters. "Saab has today responded to the F-16 replacement questionnaire issued by the Dutch Ministry of Defense, offering 85 Gripen Next Generation to the Royal Netherlands Air Force," it said. "The response is an all inclusive package with 85 Gripen NG, training, spares, simulators and support at a price that meets the Dutch defense budget plans," it said. The Gripen NG is a multi-role fighter, fulfilling the capabilities the Dutch air force specified in its request, such as combat range and endurance, weapons carriage capability, engine thrust and super cruise capability. Gripen fighters are currently in use in the Czech Republic, Hungary, South Africa and Sweden. Thailand has meanwhile ordered six planes, and interest has been expressed in Brazil, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, India, Norway, Romania and Switzerland.