Gripen Test Pilot Heads Saab India
Saab has appointed former Gripen test pilot and Head of Saab Malaysia, Ola Rignell, as the new Chairman & Managing Director of Saab India Technology Pvt. Ltd.
Before handling operations in Malaysia, he was the director of Business Development, Aviation Training at Support & Services, Saab AB. He is also member of the Board at Saab Airport AB.
Ola is a highly experienced pilot who has logged in more than 2,500 flight hours in different Swedish fighters including Saab’s Draken, Viggen and Gripen. He has also flown other fighter aircraft such as the F-16, Tornado, Hawk and Harrier. Apart from fighters, he has logged in more than 1,500 flight hours on civilian flight operations.
As a former pilot, Ola has been extensively involved in Sweden’s Gripen programme where he was responsible for testing weapons, avionics, engine performance and human-machine interface.
“Ola has the experience and the expertise which will enable Saab to further strengthen our work in the country and take forward our unbroken relationship of over 40 years. We are committed to building next-generation defence and security capabilities in India. Together with Indian government and industry, we would like to develop new ways to meet the challenges of tomorrow,” says Dean Rosenfield, Head of Saab Market Area Asia Pacific.
At a time when Saab is deeply involved in multiple activities in the Indian market, Ola’s appointment only reinforces the company’s commitment to the country.
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