Colombia's fighter jet dilemma: Rafale vs Gripen showdown
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 keen on securing the contract in Colombia?
In early April 2025, Colombia decided to purchase Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters, despite pressure from the US, which promoted its F-16s. However, France has put forward an offer for Rafale jets, which might prove to be more appealing.
French offer for Colombia
France is offering Colombia the delivery of 16 Rafale fighters in the C/F3 version, some of which would be sourced from 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 compelling offer, Colombia appears 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 raising concerns.
Strategic importance of the market
Analysts from Defense Express note that the interest in the Colombian market by the Swedes and the French may arise from the desire to establish a "foothold in the Latin American arms market." Colombia's demand provides both countries with the necessary "room to manoeuvre" to establish this foothold, as noted.
Let's recall that the JAS 39 Gripen is a single-engine fighter, characterised by delta wings and canard control surfaces. This Swedish aircraft, with a length of about 14 metres, can reach a speed of up to 2 Mach, which is approximately 2,400 km/h, and operate at altitudes up to about 18,000 metres. It stands out among other Western fighters for its ability to take off and land on improvised runways, such as roads a few hundred metres long. Additionally, the JAS 39 Gripen is considered to be simpler and more economical in terms of ground maintenance compared to models like the F-16.
The French Dassault Rafale fighter jet has proven its efficiency in combat operations over many years. Designed as a 4th-generation aircraft, it can function as both an air superiority fighter and a strike aircraft. Thanks to two Snecma M88-2 engines, the Rafale reaches a speed of up to 1.8 Mach, about 2,200 km/h, and also boasts excellent manoeuvrability.
