The Gripen NG’s Strategic Win Over F-18 Super Hornet and Rafale: A Comprehensive Analysis

The choice of the Gripen NG, now known as the Saab JAS 39E/F Gripen, by the Brazilian Air Force in 2013 as part of the F-X2 program, was a strategic decision driven by various factors beyond just the performance of the aircraft. This article delves into the numerous influences that led to this selection.

Factors Influencing the Decision

Cost-Effectiveness: The Gripen NG stood out as a more affordable option in terms of acquisition and operational costs compared to the F-18 Super Hornet and Rafale. This was of significant importance to Brazil, which had budget constraints and needed to allocate resources wisely.

Technology Transfer and Collaboration: Saab offered a greater degree of technology transfer and collaboration with the Brazilian industry. This alignment was crucial for Brazil's goal of enhancing its domestic defense capabilities and fostering local aerospace development.

Multirole Capability: The Gripen NG, designed as a multirole fighter capable of conducting both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, offered the Brazilian Air Force the versatility needed to handle various operational requirements.

Performance and Modernization: Although the F-18 Super Hornet and Rafale have proven track records, the Gripen NG features modern avionics, sensors, and a capable weapons system, making it a competitive choice in terms of performance standards.

Political and Strategic Considerations: The decision involved geopolitical considerations. Brazil sought to strengthen ties with Sweden and diversify its defense partnerships away from traditional suppliers, which further influenced the choice.

Technical Evaluations and Market Dynamics

During the technical evaluation, the Gripen E/F emerged as the winner. To put this into context, it is important to note that in a similar evaluation conducted by the Swiss Air Force, the Rafale was technically superior. However, a degrading factor of 0.7 was applied to the Gripen's technical data, significantly reducing its score.

Switzerland ultimately chose the Gripen over the Rafale due to cost analysis, where the Gripen was found to be more cost-effective. This decision was a testament to the weight given to affordability in defense procuring processes.

In the broader fighter market, the Gripen has not achieved the same level of global recognition. Outside of the Middle East, for instance, the Rafale is the only other country to have purchased the Gripen. Moreover, the Gripen has not been shortlisted in India's fighter procurement due to missing AESA radar technology.

The Indian decision, made in 2011-2012, to choose the Rafale over the Gripen due to cost concerns and the inability to manufacture in India, highlights the challenges faced by the Gripen in competitive bidding. This led to a significant shift in India's fighter requirements, with the Gripen E being highly anticipated to meet the updated criteria.

It is worth noting that even in regions where the Rafale has established a presence, like Austria with its Tranche 1 Typhoons, the Gripen is gaining traction. Austria, for example, is considering replacing its existing fighters with Gripen models due to operational issues with the Typhoon and cost concerns.

Combat Readiness and Advanced Capabilities

The Gripen NG has performed exceptionally well in various exercises, often outpacing other fighters including the F-15, F-16, and F/A-18. Advanced features such as a bi-directional link with the Meteor missile, combined with networked fighter concepts, make the Gripen an exceptionally robust platform.

Moreover, Gripen pilots have expressed high praise for the aircraft's capabilities, often leading to a tactical reassessment of other fighters, including the Rafale. The Gripen's success in drills and exercises underscores its strategic value.

Conclusion

While the Gripen NG may not have been the most obvious choice on paper, its strategic influences and operational readiness have made it a preferred option for the Brazilian Air Force. As the Gripen E becomes more accessible, its role as a versatile and cost-effective fighter is likely to further solidify its position in the global defense market.

Keywords

Brazilian Air Force, Gripen NG, F-X2 Program