Gripen International: Gripen Responds to Bulgarian Fighter Requirements.

STOCKHOLM, Sweden -- During a presentation at the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense Gripen International has submitted a comprehensive answer to a formal Request for Information regarding the new generation Gripen multi-role fighter.

The Bulgarian Ministry of Defense has been presented a complete and extensive package including 16 new generation Gripen C/D aircraft (12 single and 4 two-seater) with full support and training provided in cooperation with the Swedish Armed Forces. The flexible package outlines several options regarding financial solutions. The first aircraft could be delivered already two years after a contract has been signed.

The aircraft proposed are fully NATO compatible Gripen C/D multi role fighters prepared to carry an extensive range of armaments from Europe, the US or other countries. Equipped with an in flight refueling system, a fully autonomous Tactical Information Data Link System (TIDLS) and a NATO standard Link 16 the Gripen C/D is well suited for meeting all national defence requirements as well as being able to participate in NATO operations.

Gripen International has in this presentation fully committed to deliver 100 % offset, backed by its parent company Saab AB and a wide range of other multinational companies. This industrial cooperation with the Bulgarian Government and with Bulgarian companies will in the case of a Gripen procurement generate new business and employment in the defense as well as in other business sectors in Bulgaria. The industrial cooperation together with a range of optional flexible financing solutions which are fully supported by the Swedish Government are tailored to make a minimal impact on the Bulgarian national budget.

Gripen is the first of the new generation, multi-role combat aircraft to enter service. Using the latest available technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air and air-to-surface operational missions and employing the latest weapons. Gripen is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs. Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Hungarian and Czech Republic Air Forces and has also been ordered by the South African Air Force. The UK Empire Test Pilots' School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

Gripen International is the Swedish company which acts as a prime contracting organization, responsible for marketing, selling and supporting the Gripen fighter worldwide. Gripen International combines the strength of its international industrial partners, which are among the world's most experienced and respected manufacturers of aerospace and defence equipment.

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