The Czech Republic, which today rents the Gripen, announced on Thursday that it is considering choosing the American fighter jet F-35. The Czech Republic has begun negotiations to acquire 24 American F-35 aircraft, reports the Euractiv news site.
The country already leases 14 models of the Swedish Gripen fighter jet on a contract that runs until 2027, which could then be extended by two years.
According to Euractiv, the decision is criticized by the opposition because of the high costs. The Czech Republic must also invest in new infrastructure around the air force, as the current one is adapted for the Gripen.
Saab CEO: Not giving up
Saab’s CEO Micael Johansson describes the message as sad – but adds that Saab has absolutely not given up on the possibility of continuing to deliver fighter jets to the Czech Republic.
– We offer them a solution that is cost-effective, and a system that does not need to be replaced. I assume that the Czech Republic gives us the opportunity to offer something in the future, he tells TT.
Finland and Canada nodded
The Gripen E project has recently encountered several setbacks. The model has only been sold to Sweden and Brazil, and recently both Finland and Canada have snubbed the Swedish fighter in favor of the F-35.
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