Hungary has recently received two JAS 39 Gripen C supersonic combat aircraft from Saab, marking a significant milestone in a contract signed in 2024. This handover represents the first delivery of four aircraft ordered under this initiative, all of which are designated to be stationed at the Kecskemét Air Base in southern Hungary’s Bács-Kiskun county. The primary mission for these aircraft will be to ensure rapid response capabilities against potential airspace violations in the region.
With this latest addition, Hungary’s fleet of Gripen jets expands to a total of 14, enhancing the Hungarian Air Force’s contributions to the Baltic Air Policing mission—an extensive NATO operation. Hungary has held the position of lead nation in this mission four times, showcasing its commitment to regional security.
The Gripens are operated by the 101st Aviation Wing, which transitioned from flying Mikoyan MiG-29 fighters to the Swedish-made aircraft in 2008. Hungarian Defence Chief of Staff, Col. Gen. Gábor Böröndi, emphasized the significance of the Gripen project during the handover ceremony. He stated, “For us, Gripen is more than an aircraft, more than a military technical device. For us, for the Hungarian soldiers, it is the guarantee of our sovereignty. Since then, we have not only maintained this capability, but we are also developing it.”
The Gripen aircraft itself is a technologically advanced platform, measuring up to 16 meters (52 feet) in length and with a wingspan reaching up to 9 meters (30 feet). It can accommodate up to two personnel, depending on the operational configuration. In terms of performance, the aircraft can carry up to 4,535 liters (1,198 gallons) of fuel and has a payload capacity of 7,200 kilograms (15,873 pounds). Its advanced electronic warfare suite enhances its resilience in challenging operational environments.
Powered by a General Electric F414 afterburning turbofan engine, the Gripen can achieve a maximum speed of Mach 2 (approximately 2,470 kilometers or 1,535 miles per hour), operate at a service ceiling of 16,000 meters (52,493 feet), and cover a range of 2,200 nautical miles (4,074 kilometers or 2,532 miles).
The aircraft is equipped with a suite of weapons, including a 27-millimeter revolver cannon, IRIS-T short-range infrared homing missiles, AIM-120 air-to-air missiles, AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missiles, Meteor active radar-guided missiles, Robotsystem fire-and-forget anti-ship missiles, and laser-guided bombs. This combination of capabilities ensures the Gripen serves as a versatile asset for the Hungarian Air Force, enhancing both national defense and regional stability.
