Gripen International's managing director Ian McNamee says he is "amazed" by the Austrian government's decision to select Eurofighter Typhoon, as its new fighter aircraft.
The decision was a surprising one, with most analysts expecting Austria to select the Saab Gripen to replace its ageing Saab Drakens.
McNamee told Flight Daily News: "We were very surprised and I was slightly amazed at the decision. They chose the highest-cost, most high-risk aircraft, with the highest operating costs.
Happy
Furthermore, Sweden's Saab and the Austrian air force have a long-standing and happy relationship, and surplus Austrian pilots are presently attached to the Swedish Flygvapen flying the Viggen.
McNamee says: "Austria wanted an aircraft to attain operational status by 1 July 2005, which we could achieve. We offered the best solution, with genuine multi-role capability, low cost, and a fantastic industrial co-operation package. It's not easy, Austria requested 200% offsets, which no-one else could do. It has left us puzzled and unclear as to the process laid down by the Austrians."
Source: Flight Daily News
