In an effort to modernize its aging air force fleet, the Philippines is considering acquiring new fighter jets from Sweden. As part of its proposal, the Swedish aerospace company Saab has offered to sell its JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft to the Philippine Air Force.

The Gripen is a lightweight, single-engine multirole fighter that has seen extensive use in the Swedish Air Force. Saab has pitched the cost-effectiveness and capabilities of the Gripen as a replacement for the Philippines’ fleet of older F-5 jets that are nearing the end of their service life.

According to Saab’s proposal, they would provide the Philippine Air Force with 12 Gripen C/D model aircraft in a deal estimated at $1.7 billion. This would cover the fighters along with training for pilots and technicians, logistics support, and weaponry including air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles.

Sweden has offered attractive financing options to facilitate the purchase. The proposal includes a low interest loan covering 100% of the deal to be paid back over 15 years. This supports Sweden’s policy of using arms exports to strengthen bilateral ties and support its own defense industry.

The acquisition of the Gripen would significantly enhance the capabilities of the underfunded Philippine Air Force. The fighter’s cutting-edge avionics and reconnaissance systems would greatly bolster air defense and counterinsurgency operations. As the Philippines looks to deter Chinese expansion into its waters, having modern fighters from Sweden is seen by defense analysts as crucial for the country.