Swedish defence conglomerate Saab in collaboration with Adani defence has offered to manufacture 96 Gripen fighters in India (out of 114 jets) to win the $20 Billion Fighter Jet Deal from New Delhi, according to latest reports.
The fighter jet order calls for commitment from organizations to provide complete transfer of technology and conduct the majority of the manufacturing in India.
The Indian Air Force had originally sent out a request for information (RFI) in April for the purchase of 114 fighter jets, 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 for 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.
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.
