Czech MoD Extends Gripen Aircraft Lease up to 2035 at 25% Discount

The Czech Ministry of Defence has extended its lease of Swedish-made JAS-39 Gripen fighter jets until 2035, securing a 25% more favorable deal than previously proposed, officials confirmed following a decision by the Collegium of the Minister.

The renegotiated contract was finalized after extensive discussions with Sweden, and includes 12 Gripen aircraft—10 single-seat and 2 two-seat variants—along with servicing and pilot training. The total value of the lease is SEK 6.012 billion (approximately CZK 16.7 billion including VAT). This agreement ensures the Czech Air Force’s supersonic capability will remain intact until fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets are introduced.

“After a series of negotiations, we have managed to reach an offer which was significantly more advantageous than the one from last year. Such an agreement is good news to the Czech Republic and its defence capability,” said Lubor Koudelka, National Armaments Director.

The current Gripen lease was due to expire in 2027. With the first F-35s expected to arrive in 2031 and full operational capability set for 2035, the Gripen lease extension is intended to bridge the gap between the two platforms.

Major General Petr Čepelka, Commander of the Czech Air Force, said the reduction from 14 to 12 aircraft would still allow the Czech military to maintain airspace security and ensure pilot training continuity. He added that NATO had been informed of the reduction, in line with air policing planning requirements.

The extended lease also includes a modernization package worth SEK 1.454 billion (CZK 4.037 billion) to upgrade the aging Gripens, which have been in Czech service since 2004. These upgrades reflect evolving requirements on modern battlefields and ensure the aircraft remain operationally effective through the end of the lease.

The decision was reviewed and approved by the Collegium of the Minister of Defence, a multi-agency advisory body that includes senior defence and intelligence officials. The process also involved a legal review to ensure compliance with public procurement laws.

The Czech Republic selected the U.S.-built F-35 as its next-generation combat aircraft following a military assessment supported by NATO experts. According to that assessment, only fifth-generation jets meet future operational requirements.