Czech Republic Extends JAS 39 Gripen Fighter Jet Lease with Sweden Until F-35 Arrival in 2027.

On August 31, 2024, the Czech Republic officially signed an agreement with Sweden to extend the lease of its fleet of JAS 39 Gripen fighters beyond 2027. This strategic decision ensures that the 14 combat aircraft—comprising two two-seat and 12 single-seat versions—will continue to defend Czech airspace until the arrival of the future F-35A units, expected to begin in 2031.

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Czech Republic JAS 39 Gripen Fighter Jets (Picture source: NATO)

Delivered in 2005 and stationed at Čáslav Air Base, the Gripen fighters were initially acquired as an interim solution. However, as the Czech Armed Forces undergo a transformation to phase out their Soviet-era equipment, these aircraft have become central to the nation's defense and its contributions to NATO operations.

Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson highlighted the importance of this agreement during the signing of the joint declaration, stating that "defense cooperation between Sweden and the Czech Republic will further intensify to the benefit of both parties." The agreement not only extends the Gripen lease but also includes joint training programs with the CV90 infantry fighting vehicle, which the Czech Republic is considering acquiring.

The extension of the Gripen lease is part of a broader modernization effort within the Czech Armed Forces. The country recently approved the purchase of 24 F-35A fighters, a decision ratified by the Czech Parliament in September 2023. These new aircraft are expected to begin arriving in 2031, marking a significant enhancement in the capabilities of the Czech Air Force.

In the meantime, the Gripen fighters will continue to play a crucial role. In May, the Czech Republic hosted the Lion Effort exercise at Čáslav Air Base, where over 150 air force personnel from Hungary, Sweden, Thailand, and Brazil participated in aerial maneuvers involving more than 20 aircraft, including Gripens.

This exercise underscores the relevance of the Gripen in international air operations, pending their gradual replacement by the F-35A. The lease extension thus ensures a smooth transition to the new air defense capabilities, while strengthening strategic ties with Sweden.

According to the Military Balance 2023, the Czech Republic currently operates 14 Gripen aircraft, divided between 12 single-seat Gripen Cs and two two-seat Gripen Ds.

The Gripen C is a single-engine fighter designed for multi-role missions, including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and reconnaissance operations. It is equipped with a PS-05/A radar and can carry a wide range of armaments, including long-range air-to-air missiles like the MBDA Meteor and precision-guided bombs like the GBU-39. The Gripen D, on the other hand, is a two-seat version primarily used for training and combat missions, sharing the same configuration and combat capabilities as the Gripen C.

These aircraft are distinguished by their high reliability, simplified maintenance, and significant flexibility in integrating weapons from various countries, making them well-suited for NATO missions. For instance, they are fully compatible with the Link 16 tactical datalink, essential for coalition operations.

In terms of performance, the Gripen C can operate from very short runways and is recognized for its relatively low operating costs, a valuable feature for modern air forces. These qualities ensure that the Gripens remain relevant for Czech and NATO missions until they are replaced by the F-35A.