Aircraft
Hungary Extends Gripen Lease but Swiss Choice Challenged
Hungary extended its lease of 14 Gripen C/D fighters to 2026. But Switzerland’s choice of the Swedish fighter has not yet been confirmed, and Dassault has offered to adjust its competing offer for the Rafale. (Photo: Saab)
Hungary extended its lease of 14 Gripen C/D fighters to 2026. But Switzerland’s choice of the Swedish fighter has not yet been confirmed, and Dassault has offered to adjust its competing offer for the Rafale. (Photo: Saab)

Hungary extended until 2026 the lease contract with the Swedish government for the 14 Saab Gripen C/D fighters that it received in 2006 and 2007. The agreement was due to expire in 2016. According to press reports in Budapest, Hungary currently pays $130 million per year to operate the aircraft, which were surplus to Swedish air force requirements. Saab said it is pleased by Hungary’s “long-term strategic decision.”