SOURCE: AFI
Bengaluru: SAAB, the Swedish aerospace and defence giant, has expressed an optimistic outlook on the burgeoning opportunities within India’s defence industry. This sentiment was underscored during the unveiling of the Full Scale Replica (FSR) of its state-of-the-art single-engine Gripen E fighter aircraft at the pre-Aero Show event in Bengaluru. Kent Åke Molin, Head of the Gripen for India Programme, articulated SAAB’s commitment to not just selling aircraft but to fostering a robust technological partnership with India.
Since responding to the Indian government’s Request for Information (RFI) in 2018 for the Indian Air Force’s 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) procurement, SAAB has been actively positioning itself as a key player. The Gripen E, with its advanced capabilities, is among eight contenders vying for this significant contract, which could redefine India’s air combat strategy.
Molin, speaking to the Economic Times, detailed SAAB’s vision for India beyond mere manufacturing. “We are looking at extremely heavy investments in India, not only for production but also for future reinvestments. We will be establishing fully Indian operations in India, by Indians, and also for export,” he stated. This approach aligns with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, aiming for self-reliance in defence production.
SAAB’s strategy involves a deep level of technology transfer, which Molin emphasized is crucial for building long-term capabilities within India. “Our goal is not just to sell our products but to share technologies and capabilities, enabling the Indian defence sector to grow independently,” he said. This includes setting up local R&D centers, manufacturing facilities, and skill development programs to ensure that the Indian industry can not only produce but also innovate and upgrade these systems.
The Gripen E, known for its versatility, low operational costs, and advanced sensor suite, could be a game-changer for the Indian Air Force if selected. Its design philosophy focuses on network-centric warfare, where connectivity and information sharing are paramount, aspects that align well with the modern battlefield requirements.