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Less than two months on from the roll-out of its new-generation Gripen E, Saab is seeing unprecedented interest in its fighter at the show, says chief executive Håkan Buskhe.
“So many people are visiting us – we’ve probably never had so many,” Bushke says. “There is extremely strong interest in how we can provide that capability while being so lean,” he adds, noting that the company will complete development of the Gripen E for less than $2 billion. “If you compare that with our competitors, you don’t even get the rear fin,” he quips.
On order for the air forces of Sweden and Brazil, and to be delivered from 2019, the Gripen E is also a potential contender for future requirements in nations including Canada and India. Buskhe says Saab is aiming to secure additional sales before its entry to service, and claims: “we are the only one building a new aircraft with new technology today.”
Further orders are also anticipated for its operational C/D-model, with deliveries possible within 18 months of a deal being signed.
Buskhe says other of the company’s technologies on display within the Saab Experience exhibit – including its Bombardier Global 6000-based GlobalEye surveillance aircraft and remote tower system – are also drawing a crowd.
Meanwhile, although he describes its recent vote to leave the European Union as “a little bit heartbreaking”, Buskhe says Saab sees “huge opportunities” to grow its business in the UK.
Source: Flight Daily News
