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Gripen Locks MRF Acquisition

29 November 2018



Sweden is locked on bagging the Philippines Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) acquisition project as government confirms ₱61 billion (USD1.1 billion) budget to procure a Multi-Role combat aircraft over the next five years when the Philippine Air Force (PAF) enters phase II of its modernization project, which runs from 2018 to 2022.

The Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) programme calls for the acquisition of 12 fighter aircraft with a ceiling price tag of not more than US$1.1 billion.

The Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) has concluded a study in support of its programme to procure a new fighter jet and confirmed that Saab’s Gripen aircraft is in pole position to win the contract to be awarded next year says Delfin Lorenzana in Ozamiz City yesterday.

Swedish defense company giant SAAB offers for 12 new fighter aircraft JAS 39 Gripen C / D with the latest MS20 package, ammunition, maintenance and support services with ranges between 800 and 900 million euros. The Manufacturer has cultivated ties with the Philippine military for more than two years as it positions itself to win a multi-billion dollar contract for a Gripen squadron.

Total funding for PAF modernisation under the second horizon is ₱139 billion (USD2.5 billion).

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has budgeted ₱61 billion (USD1.1 billion) to procure a multirole combat aircraft over the next five years.

The Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) programme, which will feature the acquisition of 12 aircraft in its initial phase - is one of several requirements for the PAF as it enters its 'second horizon' modernisation phase, which runs from 2018 to 2022. Total funding for PAF modernisation under the second horizon is ₱139 billion.

5 comments:

  1. I hope Duterte does not block this programme. Let us recall that he was against the acquisition of the 12 FA-50 jets in the initial phase. But they showed their worth and strategic importance during the Marawi siege which bogged into 'trench warfare' (stalemate) for months without gaining significant ground for the military. This is also an investment for the future of our aviation industry. One day the pilots who will man these jets will become commercial pilots.

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    1. Duterte is open to modernizing the AFP for as long as suppliers and supplier's country's governments do not attach "requirements" and limitations (i.e. Canada, USA). So far, Sweden has been upbeat with the Philippines both militarily and economically (note: Biggest IKEA opening in MOA in the coming years).

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  2. Gripen C/D is best for Philippines. This plane can destroy most planes what our enemy can bring. Quantity is important. Practice will make our pilots deadly. The low acquisition and operating cost is perfect. Gripen C/D is it.

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  3. Hope our PAF must ask the SAAB that they will used the Radar Gripen C is Currently version PS-05/A Mk5 black 20

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