Greece is pursuing a two-round procurement strategy in its pursuit of a new state-of-the-art combat aircraft.The first round is to conclude this year and calls for an initialprocurement of 40 aircraft with an option for a further 20. Deliverieswould then take place in 2010 and 2011.
The Swedish proposal includes 30-40 new-generation, multiroleGripens built to NATO specifications, with delivery coming 24 monthsafter the contract is signed.Sweden also is offering up an intermediate solution, whereby Gripens that are already operational are provided to Greeceas a bridge until the new-build models arrive. These could be in Greekservice within six months of the contract being approved.
In addition, Sweden is offering infrastructure and maintenance support for the Greek Gripens, as well as extensive industrial cooperation and technology transfer.
