From the SAAB press release:
Upon an invitation from armasuisse, Saab submitted a proposal for Gripen E on 25 January 2019. Since the submission of the proposal in January, the armasuisse’ expectations on the flight tests have evolved to expect participation of operationally ready aircraft. As Gripen E is yet to become operational, Saab has presented solutions to perform the Swiss flight tests in 2019. An offer to complement the Gripen E test aircraft with an operational Gripen C aircraft for the flight tests in June 2019 has not been accepted by armasuisse. Competitors have showcased capabilities on existing platforms, which are different to the versions offered for delivery.
SAAB do have 2 points to make there if what SAAB say is correct:
1 the goalposts have been moved – aircraft to be evaluated did not need to be operational when the contest started but now they do
2 competitors are bringing aircraft for evaluation with capabilities that differ from those to be supplied
I am not sure of the wisdom of the Armasuisse approach. I see a risk of a referendum blocking procurement again on unacceptable cost grounds where perhaps a lower Gripen E cost might have been acceptable.
I note that SAAB has not withdrawn its offer and that SAAB’s Gripen E offer still stands
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