"Signing of the steady state support contract marks the start of a deeper and extended relationship between Saab, Armscor and the South African Air Force. The Gripen operation climbs out of testing and delivery phase with ad hoc, short-term support efforts into a real sustained South African Fighting Force, constantly ready and supported by Saab," says Magnus Lewis-Olsson, head of Saab's market area Sub-Saharan Africa. In short, the Gripen can fit in quite well with Brazilian needs for a fighter aircraft delivered rapidly, at a good price, with an upgradeability capability, with interoperability highlighted, able to work with other SAAB aerospace capabilities already operational in country and a highly maintainable aircraft operating in challenging conditions.