Colombia weighs French Rafael offer against Swedish Gripen
Colombia has received an offer from France to purchase Rafale fighter jets, which may be more advantageous than the Swedish Gripens, according to the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. Why are both the French and the Swedes so eager for the contract in Colombia?
In early April 2025, Colombia decided to purchase Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters, despite pressure from the United States, which was promoting its F-16s. However, France has now presented Colombia with an offer for Rafale jets, which might prove more attractive.
French offer for Colombia
France is offering Colombia the delivery of 16 Rafale fighters in the C/F3 version, some of which would come from the resources of the French Air Force. The offer also includes staff training and investments in the Colombian aviation sector. Additionally, the French plan to support the Colombian social sector.
Despite France's appealing offer, Colombia seems determined to purchase the Gripens. Official data regarding the contract for the Swedish fighters has not been disclosed yet, and the document has not been signed. However, the preliminary cost estimates are concerning.
Strategic importance of the market
Analysts from Defense Express note that the interest in the Colombian market by the Swedes and the French may stem from the desire to establish a "foothold in the Latin American arms market." Colombia's demand provides both countries with the necessary "room to maneuver" to establish this foothold.
The JAS 39 Gripen is a single-engine fighter, characterized by delta wings and canard control surfaces. This Swedish aircraft, with a length of about 46 feet, can reach speeds of up to 2 Mach, equating to approximately 1,500 mph, and operate at altitudes up to about 59,000 feet. It stands out among other Western fighters for its ability to take off and land on improvised runways, such as roads a few hundred yards long. Additionally, the JAS 39 Gripen is considered to have simpler and more economical ground maintenance compared to models like the F-16.
The French Dassault Rafale fighter jet has proven its efficiency in combat operations for many years. Designed as a 4th-generation aircraft, it can function as both an air superiority fighter and a strike aircraft. Thanks to its two Snecma M88-2 engines, the Rafale can reach speeds of up to 1.8 Mach (approximately 1,370 mph), and it also boasts excellent maneuverability.
