SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Swedish defence giant Saab has presented a compelling proposal to the Indian Air Force (IAF) under its Medium Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender, offering its Gripen-E fighter jet with a comprehensive “Make in India” production strategy. Saab not only plans to set up a production line for the Gripen-E in India but has also offered its expertise to support the production line of India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This collaboration would leverage Saab’s experience in digital engineering and fighter jet production to aid India in establishing a modernized manufacturing ecosystem.
Saab officials have highlighted India’s availability of a skilled workforce and the potential for advanced digital engineering techniques, noting that recent projects, such as the Gripen-E, have allowed Saab to refine its high-tech production capabilities. Saab’s proposal goes beyond the MRFA requirements, potentially positioning itself as a key partner in enhancing India’s domestic fighter manufacturing capability, especially for complex, next-generation platforms.
With the AMCA expected to be India’s first 5th-generation fighter jet, the program is set to involve India’s private defence sector in manufacturing for the first time, marking a shift from the traditional reliance on state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). While HAL will maintain a role as a “back-seat driver” by providing its extensive aerospace supply chain expertise, Saab’s support could help India bridge technology gaps, especially in areas like advanced materials, avionics, and digital production workflows.
The AMCA program, a significant leap in India’s indigenous fighter jet development, would benefit from Saab’s assistance in modernizing its production line, making it both cost-effective and efficient. Saab’s offer of technology transfer and production assistance could also support India’s self-reliance goals in defence manufacturing, aligning with the government’s push toward achieving greater autonomy in defence capabilities.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DMCA and Legal Notices.