BANGALORE: The Aeronautical Design and Development Centre (ADDC) bagged a multi-million multi-year contract from Swedish arms manufacturer SAAB to participate in the design and development of Gripen NG (Next Generation) fighter aircraft.
This is the first contract being awarded to ADDC, which was set up by SAAB in partnership with IT bellwether Tata Consultancy Services in September 2008. ADDC was established to create design and development capabilities within India for both military and civil aeronautical applications. It will address market opportunities in areas such as aero structures, aero systems, avionics and after market support.
India is evaluating the Gripen for its tender for 126 multi-role combat aircraft. The company is offering Gripen IN, a version of Gripen Next Generation for India’s tender. SAAB officials informed that the company executives will hold discussions with Indian Air Force top brass during Aero India and follow up on the status of the tender. The present generation of Gripen aircraft is in service with Swedish Air Force, Czech Air Force, Hungarian Air Force and South African Air Force and has been ordered by the Royal Thai Air Force.
The next generation Gripen will sport a newer engine with increased fuel capacity, higher payload, upgraded avionics and other improvements.
Gripen NG may be ready by 2013.