Building on the recent selection of the JAS-39 Gripen E/F by the Colombian Aerospace Force, Sweden is stepping up its efforts to position Saab’s fighter jet as a strong contender for other air forces in the region. This is reflected in the latest budget proposal submitted to the Swedish Parliament, aimed at securing authorization for the government to sign an intergovernmental agreement with Peru for the sale of up to 12 Gripen fighter jets, along with other military equipment.
Like other countries in the region—such as Argentina and Colombia—Peru is facing a similar situation regarding the renewal of its combat aviation. The Peruvian Air Force (FAP) currently relies on aging Mirage 2000 and MiG-29 aircraft as its main combat platforms, both of which suffer from limited availability.
For this reason, the service is pushing forward with an important modernization plan centered around the acquisition of a new combat aircraft. As stated by the FAP Commander, Air General Carlos Enrique Chávez Cateriano, three aircraft models are currently being evaluated: the U.S.-made F-16 Block 70, the French Rafale, and the Swedish JAS-39 Gripen.
Among the key milestones reached at the end of last year, the Peruvian government approved the defense budget, which includes an allocation of S/12.970 billion (approximately US$3.422 billion) for the acquisition of twenty-four (24) fighter-bombers for the Peruvian Air Force (FAP).
As previously highlighted by Defense Minister Astudillo Chávez to underscore the significance of this procurement, he stated: “… The loan, which at the current exchange rate amounts to just over 2 billion dollars, will allow us to execute Phase I of the FAP’s Acquisition Investment Project, which includes an initial batch of 12 aircraft out of the 24 planned fighter-bombers.”
With all this in mind, it was reported today that the Swedish Riksdag, as part of the budget proposals, has authorized the Swedish government to enter into agreements with its Peruvian counterpart to propose the sale of up to 12 JAS-39 Gripen E/F fighter jets. The proposal would also include other air defense systems—though unspecified—which are currently required by the Peruvian Armed Forces and would complement the fighter aircraft.
Lastly, this decision by Sweden’s legislative body should be seen as part of the country’s broader regional and international effort to promote Saab’s Gripen as a leading candidate for the modernization of air combat fleets around the world.
While still a potential development, if Peru moves forward with the selection of the Gripen, it would join Brazil—the principal and, until now, only confirmed operator of the Swedish-made fighter—along with Colombia, which recently announced its selection. However, in Colombia’s case, while President Gustavo Petro has confirmed the choice, the final contracts have yet to be signed to formalize the government’s decision.
Cover photo used for illustration purposes – Credits: Brazilian Air Force (FAB).
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