JAS-39 Gripen (Saab, Sweden; marketed by Britain’s BAE)

The Gripen is a true 4th+ generation lightweight fighter and significantly more capable than category competitors like the F-16 and Mirage 2000, though the MiG-35 may give it a run for the money. Other strengths include a wide choice of integrated weapons and pods; reasonable purchase cost; the fact that it has also been designed for exceptional cost of ownership; and the ability operate from roads instead of runways if necessary. The JAS-39’s drawbacks include its short range; the fact it’s a new aircraft type for the IAF; and a low volume of international orders to date that raises questions about the platform’s ability to modernize over the next 30-40 years.