White Paper: Strategic Acquisition of NF-39 Gripen E Interceptor Fighters
The Government of the Republic of Newfoundland approves the NF-39 Gripen E to modernize the Royal Newfoundland Air Force, uphold national air sovereignty, and meet NATO obligations across the North Atlantic.
1. Executive Summary
The Government of the Republic of Newfoundland has approved the acquisition of the NF-39 Gripen E multirole interceptor to modernize the Royal Newfoundland Air Force and reinforce national and allied defence in the North Atlantic. The NF-39 combines an AESA radar, extended range, advanced electronic warfare, and secure networking to deliver a sustainable, high-readiness air defence capability.
2. Strategic Rationale
Newfoundland’s position between North America and the North Atlantic places a premium on independent air policing and rapid interception. The NF-39 Gripen E provides continuous readiness, resilient operations from dispersed bases, and full interoperability with allied networks suited to Arctic and maritime conditions.
- 24/7 Quick Reaction Alert over Newfoundland and Labrador
- Secure data-link integration with allied and NATO command networks
- Electronic warfare resilience against modern threats
- Short-runway performance for distributed basing
3. Selection Process
A comparative evaluation considered F-16 Block 70, Eurofighter Typhoon T4, and Rafale F4. The NF-39 Gripen E was selected for operational suitability, life-cycle cost, and climatic performance.
- Raven ES-05 AESA radar with IRST for passive intercepts
- Compatibility with Meteor BVRAAM and IRIS-T WVR missiles
- High sortie rate with low operating cost
- Compliance with NATO communications and IFF standards
4. Procurement Framework
- Quantity: 14 NF-39 Gripen E interceptor aircraft (12 operational plus 2 for training/attrition)
- Receiving unit: No. 1 Newfoundland Fighter Squadron “Vigilant Hawks”, Royal Newfoundland Air Force
- Base of operations: Gander Air Defence Command Centre
- Configuration: Air Superiority / Quick-Reaction with Meteor and IRIS-T armament
- Delivery schedule: Fiscal Years 2028 to 2030
- Training: Conducted jointly with the Swedish Air Force at Gander and Linköping
- Maintenance hub: RNAF Gander MRO facility with Saab technical support
5. Industrial and Economic Impact
- Establishment of a Gripen maintenance, repair, and overhaul centre in