Key Points – Canada has a big choice to make: dump the F-35 or not? And while the F-35’s stealth capabilities are amazing, some point out that the JAS 39 Gripen could be a great replacement. We already know it can fight Chinese warplanes, which is a big reason Ottawa should consider it.
The JAS 39 Gripen
Air forces equipped with Western fighter aircraft frequently conduct exercises among multiple friendly or allied nations. The chances for these pilots to engage with pilots flying aircraft of Russian or Chinese origin, however, are rare.
One of those rare occurrences took place in November 2015 and saw Russian-made Sukhoi Su-27SK/J-11A aircraft of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) train with the 701 Fighter Squadron of the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF). The Thai squadron operated eight Saab JAS-39C and four JAS-39D Gripens.
The outcome of these engagements—a set of exercises dubbed Falcon Strike 2015—was not revealed until early December 2019. The revelations were highly unusual in that the PLA is notoriously secretive.
JAS 39 Gripen’s Western Technology Wins the Day
The outcome of the Gripen-versus-Flanker engagements was eventually revealed by a heavily decorated PLAAF fighter pilot, Senior Colonel Li Chunghua Hua, who presented the detailed engagement results at China’s Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xian, Shaanxi Province.
Li is a highly experienced aviator with more than 3,200 hours of flight time at the date of his lecture. Much of his time in fast-movers is with the Russian-made Sukhoi, making him one of the PLAAF’s premiere experts on the aircraft.
His overall revelations showed that the technology of the JAS-39C/D, which is the predecessor model to the current and significantly more capable JAS-39E/F, was still far superior to the Sukhoi, particularly in beyond visual range (BVR) engagements.
The JAS-39C/D had its least impressive results against the Su-27SK inside the visual-range envelope. During the two days of exercises, PLAAF pilots shot down 25 Gripens while losing only one Su-27.
There are reasons for those lopsided losses. One is the Su-27SK’s two higher-thrust AL-31F engines, which offer better maneuvering. Another is that inside of that IR-guided-missile envelope, the RTAF Gripens were equipped with older-generation AIM-9L Sidewinders, instead of the current-generation Diehl IRIS-T missile, which they have since received.
Perhaps most important, the RTAF pilots were told to more or less not engage with the PLAAF aircraft at close range, so as not to show any maneuvers that would educate the Chinese force on the Gripen’s performance. The order was to just let themselves be shot down.
Going BVR in JAS 39 Gripen Fighter
This all changed when the exercise switched to BVR combat.
The results demonstrated that even the older JAS-39C/D Ericsson PS-05/A radar was superior to the Sukhoi’s NIIP N001. The Swedish aircraft shot down 41 Su-27SKs over a period of four days, with a loss of only nine JAS-39s.
The Su-27SKs flown by the PLAAF were operating with a version of the NIIP N001 radar that was modified to fire the Vympel RVV-AE active-homing air-to-air missile (AAM). But this radar’s effective detection range is only 120 kilometers, in comparison with the JAS-39’s PS-05/A at 160 km. The Gripen’s Raytheon AIM-120 AAM active-homing missile also had a superior intercept range at 80 km, versus only 50 km for the Russian weapon.
Sweden’s JAS 39. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
JAS 39 fighter. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
JAS 39 Gripen. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
JAS 39 Gripen. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
In his briefing, Li stated that the JAS-39C/D’s much smaller radar cross-section, at 1.5-2.0 square meters, was another major factor. The much larger Su-27 is easier to detect at 12 square meters. The JAS-39 can also ripple-fire up to four AIM-120s simultaneously, but the Su-27 can fire only one RVV-AE at a time.
The JAS-39C/D chalked up 88 percent of its kills at 19 miles or more, while the Su-27 had just 14 percent of its kills at this range. The RTAF aircraft also had 10 kills at a distance of more than 31 miles, compared with zero long-distance kills by the Su-27.
Everything Was Leaking
Why did a senior PLAAF officer give a briefing at a prestigious university and deliver a message of “we went up against the Gripens and got skunked”? One motivation was to reveal the poor performance of the Su-27SK in combat exercises. The PLAAF now has more modern models in their inventory, such as the Russian Su-35 and the Chengdu J-20, so if the same exercise were run today, the results might be different.
But U.S. and other NATO-nation intelligence specialists at the time stated his lecture revealed increasing anxieties within the PLA officer corps regarding deficiencies in the training regime for PLAAF pilots.
Similar concerns are behind a recent scandal. It was revealed that a privately owned flying academy based in South Africa was hiring experienced Western pilots to teach PLAAF student aviators. The Western pilots had insight and skills that the PLAAF was not able to teach to its newly recruited airmen.
J-10 fighter from Chinese Air Force (PLAAF).
However, the activity was illegal according to the laws of several of the instructor pilots’ home nations, and sanctions against the companies involved were announced last month.
Subsequent exercises between the RTAF and PLAAF have been conducted since, with Beijing sending a more advanced aircraft to the event. This aircraft, the Chengdu J-10C, supposedly scored better during these exercises, but while still flying against the older JAS-39C/D.
In an engagement with the current-generation JAS-39E/F there would likely be another “uneven set of results” said one retired NATO-nation intelligence officer who spoke to 19FortyFive: “Sending a better aircraft to be used in the exercise helps, but until you actually trust your pilots with the level of autonomy granted to Western air forces, your results are still going to be disappointing.”
About the Author:
Reuben F. Johnson is a survivor of the February 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine and is an Expert on Foreign Military Affairs with the Fundacja im. Kazimierza Pułaskiego in Warsaw. He has been a consultant to the Pentagon, several NATO governments and the Australian government in the fields of defense technology and weapon systems design. Over the past 30 years he has resided in and reported from Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Brazil, the People’s Republic of China and Australia.
Ronny B. Kvam
May 4, 2025 at 12:52 pm
What do you mean when you say he is a survivor of the 2022 invasion of Ukraine? You make it sound like he faught on the ground, side by side the Ukranians…
Krystalcane
May 5, 2025 at 12:26 pm
Is it because Donald Trump’s a complete idiot. And he’s created enemies of all our friends and cushioned up to a fascist dictator in Russia
malcolm mac donald
May 5, 2025 at 1:00 pm
Author must work for the f35 manufacturer.
Dave Curiel
May 5, 2025 at 2:05 pm
Canada isn’t scrapping purchase of the F-35, they are cutting back due to budget as well as using the threat to offset Trumps tariffs. Of Saab gives them a deal they can use the Gripen as an interceptor and the F-35 as a stealth intruder
Terry Zuwa
May 5, 2025 at 5:39 pm
Canada should purchase a minimum of the F 35’s and perhaps the gripen if they need more aircraft and most importantly get involved with the UK Japan and Italy in the production of the 6th generation tempest! Canada was invited by the UK to help produce this kickass aircraft!!
Eric
May 5, 2025 at 6:42 pm
I really don’t see it happening. The US has export control over the gripen due to it having an American engine and American weapon systems. I really don’t forsee trump letting Canada stick their finger in his eye by canceling the F-35 and then him approving the gripen sale. Especially how petty and vindictive he is.
Bill
May 6, 2025 at 2:13 am
Why not purchase some of both fighter planes?
Michael
May 6, 2025 at 2:27 am
Eric, it isn’t that simple (even if some of the authors here want to make it seem so) Sweden exports certain stuff that is really highend that the US lacks (I read about it but can’t recall if it was optics, aiming or radars or something). Stuff the US really needs.
So there is a certain terror balance.
In the bigger picture, your comment really drives home the reason for Canada not going with F35 only – the pettiness and vindictiveness of king trump.
Niclas Horn
May 6, 2025 at 4:36 am
Another article trying to shoot down the SAAB JAS 39 GRIPEN-E, its funny to see the Americans so afraid of our key. But they are right to be tho, its a damn good plane with EW tech instead of “stealth”…
Rick
May 6, 2025 at 11:19 am
WOW just listen to yourselves, here you are placing blame on Trump, when it isn’t Trump who brought up not buying the jet, why would the Canadian government say such a thing ? After all it is Canada that the Russians will invade, we all know Canada realizes America will back them up regardless, but in truth they still want the best planes , the Gripe. is a very capable aircraft the world knows this, and the F35 is second to none , so why not get both planes , Canada and America are family, Americans think of Canadians as family and the same is possibly true of Canadians, one cannot be who they are without the other. What people don’t seem to understand is the fact that even though Americans and Canadians are family it is not a good thing if one cheats the other in unfair trade practices, especially if they are helping a country that neither of them trust rip America off, Trump is only looking out for the country he love and owes so much to. If the roles were reversed Canada would have done the same thing, but maybe not air the dirty laundry, Trump wants the people of America which is also a great deal of Canadians to realize he is doing everything he can to make trade equal once again in the world , people of America should be so proud to have a president who will finally do something to make trade equal once again. America and Canada are family just ask any Canaricans or Ameraidian !
TC
May 6, 2025 at 12:42 pm
I can’t believe any of you have studied the capabilities of the F22, or for that matter the f35 which is not one of my favorites, any time you compromise because of budgetary constraints you will have issues. Just be aware that the F15EX is a formable weapons system because it can use our newest missiles, which by the way you can trust me outclass everyone else’s. The F22 outclasses everyone period, what a joke that you even suggest any other country has superior electronics. Just picture this the F22 will be over a 100 miles away when it tracks the enemy and be firing a weapon that has almost 100 percent accuracy at more than 160 miles. Just imagine the enemy has not even seen the aircraft that fired it as it approaches at Mach 2 and visually locks on. This aircraft has a 20 to 1 or more kill ratio, too bad it has not been proven yet. Let the Chinese attack Taiwan within about 48 hours they won’t have anything capable of getting off the ground or floating. That’s your reality check.
John
May 6, 2025 at 2:52 pm
Why people think China is a threat to Canada? Trump is in America… Wake up.
Jabbers99
May 6, 2025 at 5:40 pm
That’s just stupid. The F-35 is the best of the best. Why would we want to spend money on something that doesn’t measure up? To spite Trump? Stupid.
Jonathan
May 7, 2025 at 4:41 am
A generation 4.5 aircraft buy now would be like buying spitfire because you do not want a phantom capabilities.
Gen 6 is here now and everyone is pushing canada to go backwards…
Marc Landreville
May 7, 2025 at 2:18 pm
There is no advantage switching to the Gripen: it has a US engine subject to whimsical US restrictions. As with the F35, it is single engine so that every flame-out will cost $100 million. The Rafale is a twin-engine aircraft.
Mike
May 7, 2025 at 2:43 pm
Lol y’all buying inferior equipment out of spite. That’s hilarious. When your national security is on the line, “good enough” will have to do.
Stefan Ekblad
May 8, 2025 at 12:25 pm
Why do you believe that that the f35 is anything like a 5th gen, aircraft? Is it because LM told you so?
Please tell me why the Gripen can not match the f35 (you are of course aware that your phone will not work without swedish tech. You Did not know this, because your all stupid…..
Stefan
May 8, 2025 at 12:34 pm
Hello again!
TC
May 8, 2025 at 6:01 pm
I can’t believe your wasting your time on this issue it is irrelevant what Canada buys it won’t be enough to counter anything, as usual it will depend on American equipment and Pilots. As always we will save the world because they don’t have the will. The product of your leftist communist thought process. You can hate Trump all you want he is not the problem, your idea that you can get a free ride on everything while the individuals that create wealth pay for it.
Based on available data for 2025, the United States of America possesses the most powerful air force in the world, including the capabilities of both the Air Force and the Navy.
Here’s a breakdown:
• Overall Dominance: The United States’ air power surpasses the combined aerial capabilities of several leading nations, including Russia, China, India, South Korea, and Japan. This is largely attributed to its significant military expenditure, accounting for approximately 40% of the global total.
• Largest Fleet: The U.S. maintains the largest military aircraft fleet globally. While different sources provide slightly varying numbers, the total active military aircraft inventory is substantial.
o One source indicates a total of 13,043 aircraft for the United States in 2025.
o Another source from early 2025 lists a total of 13,209 aircraft.
o Including all branches (Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Army), one ranking places the total at 13,052 aircraft.
• U.S. Air Force: The U.S. Air Force itself is the largest air force in the world.
• U.S. Navy Air Power: Notably, the U.S. Navy’s air arm is considered the second most powerful air force globally by some measures. Its fleet includes a significant number of fighter aircraft and
• the unique capability of aircraft carriers, providing unmatched global power projection. The Navy operates 11 supercarriers and numerous amphibious assault ships capable of carrying aircraft.
• Technological Edge: The U.S. military possesses advanced and powerful technologies across its aircraft fleet. This includes fifth-generation fighters like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, as well as sophisticated electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and support aircraft.
TC
May 8, 2025 at 6:27 pm
Key Areas of Swedish Military Exports to the U.S.:
• Arms and Ammunition: Sweden exports a variety of arms and ammunition, including:
o Parts of military weapons, revolvers, and pistols. In 2024, this amounted to approximately $37.97 million.
o Bombs, grenades, torpedoes, mines, missiles, and similar munitions of war ($11.38 million in 2024).
o Other arms like spring, air, or gas guns ($5.35 million in 2024).
o While the U.S. has a robust domestic arms industry and imports from many countries, specific high-quality or niche munitions or weapon components from Sweden might be unique or offer a competitive advantage.
• Vehicles: In 2024, the U.S. imported $4.29 billion worth of vehicles (other than railway or tramway) from Sweden. This category likely includes specialized military vehicles. For example, BAE Systems Hägglunds (a Swedish company now under BAE Systems) provides the U.S. Army with the Beowulf BvS10 Cold Weather All-Terrain Vehicle. This vehicle’s specific capabilities for extreme cold weather operations might be a unique offering from Sweden.
• Aircraft and Spacecraft: While the U.S. is a leader in aerospace, it still imports aircraft and spacecraft from Sweden ($62.42 million in 2024). A notable example is Saab’s partnership with Boeing to provide the aft section of the new U.S. Air Force T-7 jet fighter trainer. This specific component and collaboration are unique. Sweden also has a growing space industry and aims to launch military satellites, potentially offering unique future capabilities.
• High-Technology Components and Systems: Sweden is known for its innovation and high-tech industries. While specific details are often proprietary, it’s likely that Swedish companies provide specialized electronic components, sensors, communication systems, or other advanced technologies that are integrated into U.S. military equipment. The Pentagon has been known to explore Swedish military technology for unique solutions.
• Cybersecurity and Electronic Warfare: Sweden has specialized expertise in areas like cybersecurity and electronic warfare, particularly in the Arctic region (“High North”). Collaboration between the U.S. Air Forces Cyber and the Sweden Cyber Command indicates that Sweden offers unique knowledge and capabilities in countering cyber threats, especially in challenging environments.
Why the U.S. Might Choose Swedish Exports:
• Specific Niche Capabilities: As seen with the all-terrain vehicles, some Swedish products are designed for specific environments or offer unique functionalities not readily available elsewhere.
• Technological Innovation: Sweden is considered a highly innovative country with strong connections between its military needs and technological development. This can lead to cutting-edge solutions.
• Established Partnerships: The U.S. and Sweden have a long-standing defense partnership, making collaboration and procurement easier.
• Interoperability: As Sweden increasingly aligns with NATO standards, its military equipment is likely designed for better interoperability with U.S. and allied forces.
In conclusion, while the U.S. has diverse sources for military procurement, Sweden likely offers unique, high-quality products and technologies in specific areas like specialized vehicles, certain munitions or weapon components, aerospace collaborations, and niche technological solutions, particularly in cybersecurity and cold-weather operations. The exact “can’t get anywhere else” aspect is difficult to definitively prove without classified information, but the nature of some Swedish exports suggests unique contributions.
Lockheed Martin: As the prime contractor for both the F-35 Lightning II and the F-22 Raptor, Lockheed Martin is heavily involved in the overall avionics integration, including cockpit systems. They select and integrate various components from other specialized suppliers.
For the F-35 Lightning II:
• L3Harris: A major provider of advanced avionics for the F-35. They supply critical components such as:
o Panoramic Cockpit Display Electronic Unit (PCD EU): This system processes information for the large panoramic head-down display, providing pilots with crucial situational awareness. L3Harris was selected to upgrade this system for faster processing speeds in the Technology Refresh-3 (TR-3) program.
o Aircraft Memory System (AMS): This acts as the central repository for avionics operational flight programs, mission data, and other critical information.
o Integrated Core Processor (ICP): Considered the “brains” of the aircraft, the ICP processes data for communications, sensors, electronic warfare, guidance, control, and cockpit/helmet displays.
o Cockpit Displays: L3Harris produces the panoramic cockpit display electronic units (PCD EUs) and display units (PCD DUs).
• Collins Aerospace (part of RTX): Provides the advanced F-35 Gen III Helmet Mounted Display System (HMDS). This system integrates the head-up display (HUD), helmet-mounted display, and night vision, allowing pilots to target weapons, maintain spatial awareness, and monitor flight information.
• Core Avionics & Industrial Inc. (CoreAVI) and Lynx Software Technologies: These companies collaborate to provide secure virtualized GPU technology for the F-35’s Panoramic Cockpit Display Electronic Unit (PCD-EU), ensuring secure partitioning and management of graphics across multiple displays.
For the F-22 Raptor:
• Boeing: A principal partner in the F-22 program, Boeing is responsible for avionics integration. Their Avionics Integration Laboratory (AIL) was used for ground-testing and flight-testing the F-22’s mission software.
• BAE Systems: Provides the advanced AN/ALR-94 electronic warfare (EW) system for the F-22. While primarily an EW system, it feeds crucial threat information to the cockpit displays, enhancing situational awareness. BAE Systems is also upgrading the F-22’s head-up display to a full digital version using their Digital Light Engine (DLE) technology.
• Curtiss-Wright: Supplies rugged commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) processor module technology for upgrading the F-22’s Central Integrated Processor (CIP). The CIP handles data and signal processing for the radar, sensors, electronic warfare systems, and other intensive computing tasks.
• GE Aviation Systems: Provides instrument panels and lighting controllers for the F-22 cockpit.
It’s important to note that the development and integration of cockpit electronics for advanced military aircraft like the F-35 and F-22 involve a complex network of subcontractors and suppliers working under the prime contractor’s guidance. The specific components and providers can sometimes evolve over the aircraft’s lifecycle through upgrades and modernization programs.
Stefan and others I don’t know what alternate universe you are living in but nothing in the f22 cockpit or aircraft comes from Sweden, I am very familiar with the program nothing was allowed to be imported or exported period. It was not shared with Allies. The F35 program is possible but not likely except for the ones for export to NATO Allies. As far as a Gripen vs F35 no contest your fighter will be going down in smoke before it even sees the F35. Interesting isn’t it I guess you guys spent too much time working on phones to develop your own turbine engines. Unless you bought GE and moved it to Sweden when I wasn’t looking.
Stefan Ekblad
May 9, 2025 at 11:58 am
To TC, what is the availability rate, all missions capable of the F22 and the F35? Are they not just “hangar queens”?