Philippines Expresses Interest in Gripen Fighter Jet
The Philippine government is considering the procurement of Saab Gripen fighter jets, as announced by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro. In an exclusive interview with Swedish media Ecot, Teodoro expressed the urgent need for the Philippines to acquire aircraft and is exploring potential countries to source fighter jets from. In the interview, he specifically mentioned that the Saab Gripen, developed by Saab, is a strong contender for the supply of aircraft.
The decision on the most suitable solution for the Philippines is to be made promptly, indicating the country’s urgency in strengthening its defense capabilities. The Philippines has increased its defense expenditures due to tensions with China, particularly in the East China Sea. As a result, the country has entered into defense agreements with the United States, Australia, and Sweden.
In June 2023, the Philippines signed a defense memorandum of understanding with Saab for the supply of aircraft, with additional provisions to allow Swedish companies to participate in modernization programs for the country’s Armed Forces. In the first half of 2023, the Philippines organized a tender for fighter jets, with four different aircraft from four countries competing. Ultimately, the Philippines found Sweden’s offer reasonable and signed an agreement in Singapore, which included second-hand Gripen C and D fighters equipped with fifth-generation electronics.
Philippine Air Force Commander Stephen Parreño visited Sweden to gather information about the Swedish-produced JAS-39 fighter jets and Saab 340 aircraft, indicating a strong interest in potential procurement. Given the country’s geographic challenges, future plans for the procurement of early warning and control aircraft may also be on the agenda.
The potential acquisition of Saab Gripen fighter jets represents a significant milestone in the military cooperation between the Philippines and Sweden, marking a strategic move to enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Armed Forces.
In conclusion, the Philippines is carefully evaluating its options for the procurement of advanced fighter jets, with the Saab Gripen emerging as a strong candidate to meet the country’s defense needs. This move indicates the Philippines’ commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities and strengthening its military partnership with Sweden.
