The Philippine Air Force Is Set to Acquire Saab JAS-39 Gripen Fighter Jets From Sweden

The Philippines and Sweden have reached an agreement that would have the former obtaining new fighter jets as part of the Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s multi-role fighter acquisition project.

Department of National Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. and Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson signed a memorandum of understanding during a trip to Singapore. This comes after PAF chief Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño visited Sweden in late May to tour the Saab facility.

“The agreement opens up opportunities for Swedish defense industries to participate in the Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization program as well as for possible joint initiatives in support of the Philippines’ thrust to achieve a self-reliant defense posture,” the Department of National Defense said in a statement.

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Last March, the Philippines and Sweden were finalizing the agreement for defense material acquisition. DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said at the time: "The officials discussed updates on the Philippines' defense modernization efforts, particularly on the priorities of the Philippine Air Force to boost its surveillance and interdiction capabilities."

The Philippines was looking for aircraft that were fourth generation or higher aircraft, which would be suitable for improving external defense. Among the contenders for the acquisition were the Saab JAS-39 "Gripen" and the Lockheed Martin F-16V "Viper" jet fighters. The MRF project is under Horizon 2 of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program.

These new fighter jets should bolster the Air Force's existing fleet of 12 South Korean-made Mach 1.5 capable FA-50PH light jet fighters. The Lockheed Martin F-16V "Viper" jet fighter is still on the department's radar for future acquisitions.