In 1999, South Africa signed a contract with BAe/Saab for the procurement of 26 Gripens (C/D standard) with minor modifications to meet its requirements. Deliveries to the South African Air Force commenced in April 2008. By April 2011, 18 aircraft (nine two-seater aircraft and nine single-seaters) had been delivered. While the establishment of a Gripen Fighter Weapon School at Overberg Air Force Base in South Africa had been under consideration, in July 2013 Saab ruled out the option due to a lack of local support for the initiative; Thailand is an alternative location being considered, as well as the Čáslav Czech air base.
In 1999 South Africa signed a contract with BAe/Saab for the procurement of 26 Gripens (C/D standard) with minor modifications to meet its requirements Deliveries to the South African Air Force commenced in April 2008 By April 2011 18 aircraft (nine two-seater aircraft and nine single-seaters) had been delivered While the establishment of a Gripen Fighter Weapon School at Overberg Air Force Base in South Africa had been under consideration in July 2013 Saab ruled out the option due to a lack of local support for the initiative; Thailand is an alternative location being considered as well as the Čáslav Czech air base