There are now considerations to send JAS 39 Gripen warplanes to Ukraine, a versatile and cost-effective fighter jet designed for prolonged engagements. Sadly, such a move won't change the condition on the ground or above the sky when it comes to taking on Russia.
The latest proposition to supply Ukraine with JAS-39 Gripen jets from Sweden, known for their versatility and compatibility with advanced missiles like the MDBA Meteor, represents another attempt to bolster Ukraine's defenses. However, the underlying narrative suggests that these efforts might not be enough to overcome the strategic and tactical advantages held by Russia.
Is Saab moving to produce a next-generation fighter jet? Saab CEO Micael Johansson is pressing Sweden to put money towards a new fighter, albeit, with the understanding that a new fighter would still be many years away.
In joint exercises between the Royal Thai Air Force's JAS 39 Gripen fighters and the People's Liberation Army Air Force's (PLAAF) Su-27s, the Gripen demonstrated superior performance.